Two leading Socialist and Democrat MEPs have called for stronger action to combat the hate speech and extremism of the far right in Europe. Speaking at a conference on hate speech, S&D Group vice-president Tanja Fajon and S&D MEP Cécile Kyenge, called for a tougher response to lies and xenophobia spread by extreme right-wing groups.
S&D Group vice-president Tanja Fajon said:
"The extreme right is on the march again in Europe. From Golden Dawn in Greece to the National Front in France, parties that believe in dividing Europeans based on religion or race are growing in prominence and gaining support. Every week we hear new statements from these groups that are designed to inspire fear and whip up hatred."
"We on the left must do far more to expose these parties' lies and challenge their narrative. First and foremost this must be through clear and frank debate. However, when these individuals cross the line from expressing vile opinions to inciting hatred or violence then we must be prepared to respond with all legal means at our disposal."
"This must also be the case for fighting online hate speech. In many Member States laws covering published hate speech are still stuck in the 20th Century and don't provide enough protection for victims in the digital world. We need to look at new ways to fight this hateful propaganda online."
S&D MEP Cécile Kyenge, who was herself a victim of far-right attacks when Minister for Integration in Italy, added:
"Freedom of expression is one of the building blocks of a democratic society but hate speech on the other hand is a violation of that freedom. We have witnessed a lot of solidarity towards refugees but we have seen a surge of xenophobic hate speech in the last few months. We clearly need better and serious recording of hate crimes to ensure appropriate investigation, prosecution and sentencing."
"It is high time that Member States fully implemented EU law to combat racism and xenophobia. By fighting hate speech, the European Union can reiterate the reasons for its existence: freedom, democracy, coexistence."
