Hate Speech

By News on the Net —— Bio and Archives May 31, 2011

Comments | Print This | Subscribe | Email Us

AMSTERDAM - Anti-Islam lawmaker Geert Wilders' defence has rested its case at his hate speech trial, calling for his acquittal in the name of free speech, justice and democracy. Wilders is accused of inciting hatred and discrimination against Muslims with remarks including some comparing the Qur’an to Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf."

Prosecutors, who were ordered to take on the case unwillingly, have also called for acquittal. They say Wilders' remarks may offend Muslims, but they are part of political debate and protected by freedom of speech laws. Defence lawyer Bram Moszkowicz quipped Monday he had never before seen a trial where the defence could have adopted the prosecution's arguments. Judges could still convict Wilders, however. A verdict has yet to be scheduled for late June. Jim Horn