Embassy and police fail to protect Japanese woman murdered in Hungary

The tragic murder of a 43-year-old Japanese woman in Budapest has sparked widespread outrage and ignited a fierce debate about the response of both Japanese and Hungarian authorities to domestic violence.

The woman, who was a victim of domestic abuse by her Irish ex-husband, sought assistance from the Japanese Embassy in Hungary.

Desperate to return to Japan with her two children, she requested temporary passports for them.

Temporary passports can be issued by embassy staff if required

However, instead of providing the necessary support, the Embassy reportedly urged her to “talk it out” with her abusive ex-husband.

This devastating failure to protect the woman has drawn sharp criticism from women’s rights advocates in both countries.

Friends and legal representatives of the victim have spoken out, highlighting the Embassy’s inaction despite the clear and present danger the woman faced.

Furthermore, the Hungarian police also came under fire for their inadequate response.

Despite the woman reporting threats and the theft of her computer by her ex-husband, the police dismissed her concerns, claiming the threats did not constitute a crime and that she was “being ridiculous.”

The woman’s tragic death has sparked widespread protests, with hundreds of women and victim’s rights advocates gathering outside her apartment building and subsequently marching to the Hungarian Parliament Building to demand accountability and justice.

The Hungarian Parliament Buildings stand on the banks of the Danube

This incident has highlighted systemic failures in addressing domestic violence in both Japan and Hungary.

A memorial gathering was held for the deceased woman

Women’s rights advocates in both countries have long criticized law enforcement agencies for their inadequate response to domestic violence cases, including sexual assault and molestation.

The Hungarian police have issued a rare public apology and whilst this is a welcome step, it does little to alleviate the grief and anger felt by the community.

It is hoped that urgent changes are made both by the police and embassy staff to better protect victims of domestic violence going forward.

Source: Kyodo News