In the aftermath of the Paris attacks, Amnesty International is reporting that at least 69 people in France have been arrested on a charge of “defending terrorism”. Amnesty International is concerned that the vaguely worded law, enacted last November in a criminal statute, could lead to violations of freedom of expression. The law is broadly worded and may allow for convictions against persons whose statements, while being highly offensive, do not possess an intent to promote violence, the requisite element of a number of international treaties on the prevention of terrorism. John Dalusien, Europe and Central Asia Programme Director for Amnesty International is quoted saying “How the French authorities act in the aftermath of the horrific killings is the litmus test for its commitment to human rights for all.”
Je suis Charlie.