Hazel Behan says it’s time for change
Activist Hazel Behan has confirmed she has lodged a case against Portugal with the European Court of Human Rights.
Behan is taking a case against Portugal over the failure to investigate Christian Brückner, who allegedly raped her in 2004.
According to The Independent, Behan lodged the case today, April 16th.
According to reports, she has “lodged an application before the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) challenging the Portuguese authorities’ failure to properly investigate the serious sexual assault she suffered in 2004.”
Behan was raped at her apartment in Praia da Rocha, Algarve in 2004.
Her ECHR case centres on the alleged failure of the Portuguese authorities to identify and arrest Christian Brückner.
Behan believes her case was not properly investigated by the Portuguese authorities.
In a statement, Behan said today is a very important day for her.
“Today, I lodged my case against Portugal with the European Court of Human Rights.
“The case relates to a rape I survived in 2004 and the State’s failure to properly investigate it. That failure has caused me years of unimaginable hurt and pain.”
She continued: “This is not just about my experience—it’s about holding systems accountable and demanding that survivors of rape and all forms of GBV receive, at the very least, a basic standard of care, dignity, and respect. I never want another person to go through what I have.”
The Irish activist added, “It’s time for change.”
“Huge thanks to the formidable Darragh Mackin of Phoenix Law for his tireless work and for being a constant source of support and encouragement.”
Christian Brückner was named as a prime suspect in the ongoing investigation into Madeleine McCann’s disappearance.
Brueckner is currently in prison after he was found guilty of raping an elderly woman in Praia da Luz, Portugal. Brueckner also reportedly filmed the attack. He is currently serving a seven-year sentence in prison.
