AMSTERDAM (AP) — Muslims in the Netherlands say that remarks by politician Geert Wilders have poisoned attitudes toward them, making them feel unwelcome and at risk, according to complaints disclosed at his hate speech trial Wednesday.
“My family and I no longer feel safe in the Netherlands because Mr. Wilders is continually making hateful remarks about Islamic Dutch people,” said one complaint read out by the judge. “It’s getting scary. … Soon the kids won‘t be able to say that they’re Muslim or half-Moroccan,” wrote the citizen, whose name was not released.
Dozens of similar complaints filed with public prosecutors eventually led them to file charges against Wilders, citing frequent statements he has made comparing Islam to Fascism, calling for a ban on Muslim immigration and for banning the Quran.
Wilders is charged with inciting discrimination and hatred and with insulting a people on religious grounds, punishable with up to a year in jail and a fine.
Wilders, who polls suggest is the Netherlands’ most popular politician, denies any wrongdoing. He says that his opinions are protected by freedom of speech and endorsed by more than a million people who voted for him in national elections last June.
He accused his judges of bias, but lost a motion this week to have them replaced. In an opening statement on Monday, he claimed his trial is political and he would remain silent in court.
The case is seen as a test of how far a politician can go in speaking negatively about a religion without unlawfully infringing on religious freedom. He has never called for violence.
The debate over immigration has dominated Dutch politics for a decade, as it has in much of Europe. Immigration controls have been continually tightened due to rising resentment over the growing Muslim presence and their difficulty in accepting Dutch values. Muslims, mostly from Morocco and Turkey, now comprise about 6 percent of the Netherlands’ 16.5 million population.
Many people feel the government has been too naive about problems caused by immigrants and too politically correct.
But others believe Wilders has crossed the line, for example when he says that “If Muslims want to stay here, they must tear out half the Quran and toss it.”
His 2007 statement of his policy goals includes: “Close the borders, no more Islamic people into the Netherlands, many Muslims out of the Netherlands, denaturalize Islamic criminals.”
Many of his ideas are being incorporated into the program of the new government set to take power as early as this week. Wilders has pledged to support the minority government in exchange for measures that would turn away more asylum seekers, halve the number of new immigrants from nonwestern countries, ban the public wearing of face-concealing Muslim garb and force immigrants to pay for their own mandatory citizenship classes.
At Wednesday’s hearing, the judges viewed Wilders’ short film “Fitna,” which juxtaposes Quranic verses with images of terrorist attacks to argue that Islam is an inherently violent religion. Its release in 2008 prompted demonstrations in the Muslim world.
He has lived under constant police protection since 2004 due to threats against his life.
Prosecutions for inciting racial hatred are rare. In 1997, right-wing lawmaker Hans Janmaat was fined and given a two-month suspended sentence for saying if he ever came to power he would “get rid of the multicultural society” — a case that shows how the boundaries of acceptable debate have changed.
Prosecutors initially declined to act on the complaints and press charges against Wilders. But an appeals court ruled there was sufficient evidence he has broken the law, and ordered prosecutors to bring a case.
It is possible prosecutors will drop some or all charges toward the end of the trial, or demand no punishment.
A verdict is expected November 4.
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Comments (101)
Eagle07
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:43amIt surely can‘t be that they follow a barbaric religion that people don’t like them and that they are terrorists. Nah has to be that mean man.
Report Post »missmarie
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:36amThe Netherlands are experiencing a multitude of problems associated with the growing number of muslims in their country. Initially, the immigration was by muslims that wanted to flee the violence and horrific treatment of their families, many were Christian converts escaping the middle east to save their lives, but now the region has become another hub of radicalization and recruitment. A Christian convert in our neighborhood recently spoke openly about what is happening there and how he fears for his family. I pray for them.
Report Post »HiredMind Blog
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:35am“Wilders, citing frequent statements he has made comparing Islam to Fascism, calling for a ban on Muslim immigration and for banning the Quran.”
Wilders never called for banning the Quran. He said that if Mein Campf is banned in the Netherlands (it is), then the Quran should also be banned. But like all conservatives (and all other freedom-loving people), he doesn’t think that any books should be banned with the force of government. His point was that they are BOTH filled with hate, and should be treated the same. If you don’t believe that the Quran is filled with hate, and commands to kill apostates, then why is Wilders living in a security bubble? Why must he be protected by armed men 24 hours a day, from the followers of the Quran?
See my take here: http://www.hired-mind.com/2010/09/will-the-real-islamophobe-please-stand-up/
Report Post »American Pride
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:10amIslam is going through presently what Christianity went through during the crusades. The join us or Die mentality is sooo 900A.D. Hopefully, in the next 50-100 years, Islam will grow into the benign group of holy rollers that we all wish it would become. Bingo and potluck dinners for all=)
Report Post »mtnclimberjim
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:04amI love the muzies, they make good fertilizer
Report Post »mtnclimberjim
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:01amWhen do you think the actual fighting will begin? I would like to apply for a muzie tag please. Can I also get a mexican deprivation hut tag also? Would I have to pay out of state tag fees to hunt the border?
Report Post »scootydoo
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:57amAWESOME, I wish we had some politicians in America with this guys guts.
Report Post »mallsniper
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:54amI am hichin a ride on the Joetrain!!!! Amen brother. I would be honored to fight at your side.
Report Post »Iamtheoracle
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:53amcry babies – and to JoeTrain – I am ready to be “mad dog mean” to protect my family and my country and good will win over evil. Do not be distracted by the whining victim stance of perpetrators and don’t be distracted by the lie of tolerance
Report Post »joetrain
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:48amAll I can say is prepare your hearts and minds for battle. Our enemies have been doing so for over a century while we have been dreaming of “world peace.” Peace on earth will only happen when one side wins. I beleive Clint Eastwood said it best in The Outlaw Josie Wales when he gave a pep talk to the homesteaders and told them that in order to survive they needed to get “mad dog mean.” Survivial requiers a mad dog or two.
Report Post »mallsniper
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:46amThis is the reason why we will never win the war against islam and all of its people.
Tolerance has no place in war.
To understand war is to understand hell.
Level all mosques, eliminate all muslims,
Before they do it to you.
Go to Saudi and ask directions to the nearest church.
I prove my point.
Prospero
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:49amPrecisely. We don’t recognize religions that call for human sacrifice. Neither should Islam continue to be recognized as a religion that enjoys Constitutional protection. But rather, as a political doctrine subversive to every Western notion of liberty.
Report Post »ME
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 12:05pmSo right to both comments
Report Post »joetrain
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:44amThe history of the Muslim religion is fascinating, dramatic, and violent. Much like the history of the rest of the world. The problem is that we refuse to accept that history because of our 60′s era peace mentality. Too many of us have uttered the phrase “world peace” without knowing the implications of such an act. In order for there to be “world peace” there must be a resolution between the ancient birthright dispute between muslims and christians. Can this ever happen without blood in the streets? No, I am a Christian, and you will have to kill me to change my influence on the world as a Christian. I will die before I negate my religion, and my religion tells me that killing is wrong and control over others is Satan’s plan. With that in mind, do we really beleive that all we have to do is reason with the muslim and he will abandon his plan for another caliphate, walk away from the holy war and, like a Christian, love his neighbor. Could you as a Christian be “reasoned” out of your conviction? Prepare your heart and mind for battle, because your enemies have been doing so for HUNDREDS of years.
Report Post »reshas1
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:37amThat is what I say, GO HOME!!! I remember flying into Frankfurt 20 + years ago from Minneapolis. Sat next to a muslim, who kept trying to chat me up.. When I arrived in Frankfurt, I had German cousins who were picking me up. I couldn’t find them for the sea of Muslims waiting for family/friends off of flights. I couldn’t believe it, didn’t think much of it then, but now seems really sinister.
Report Post »Was in Germany 4 years ago and my relatives were telling me that in some cities/towns, they know people that won’t even go to the market or city center anymore because they are afraid to because of the muslims.
momsense
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:36amThese people better take a long hard look at what they’re facing—21st century people living with 12th century–kill anyone not like us mentality. Pick up a book and read about the atrocities theyhave committed in the name of religion and then think about a journailst named Daniel Pearl.Is this life of slavery, bigotry and torment what you want for you kids and grand kids —especially your daughters and grand daughters? This is one time when tolerance has become potential insanity and self destruction.
Report Post »calebgs83
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:28amGeert Wilders…you are a hero…all westerners would be wise to heed your words.
Report Post »Derek01
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:25amThere is NOTHING preventing them from GOING HOME. They could be close to mecca, they could pound sand all day. What’s not to like?
Report Post »Star Spankled
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:24amH’e trying to protect his people from murders ! We need some like him here .
To hell with political correctness it kills free speech !
This is what Geert Wilders knows that others won’t say out loud ..
Report Post »http://www.therightscoop.com/must-watch-saturday-cinema-islam-what-the-west-needs-to-know-98-minutes
Please , PLEASE Americans take the time to watch this video , it’s made by people who have left Islam , even one former PLO terrorists . You’ll learn why muslims choose Sept. 11 to attack us and what THAT date means to them , you’ll learn how they are TOLD to lie to us and keep the peace until they have enough numbers to attack us from within . They are told this “peace” shouldn’t last more than 10 years . Sept. 11, 2011 will be 10 years since the last attack .
Wake up ! Obama knows this too , this is what was on his mind when he said “ We can absorb another attack ” He knows it’s coming .
Rhoadrash
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:23amMuslims portray themselves as a monolithic block of people who when moving to a country other than their own would have that countrys culture and laws be subordinate to their religion. Please show me an example in a muslim country where a jew, christian, hindu,buddhist or even atheist is afforded even a modicom of rights in a muslim run country. Islam is ruled by people who wish to remain in the 12th century.
Report Post »If the conditions of these countrys is such that a person feels a need to leave then they should adapt to the culture of the country to wich they are emigrating.
momsense
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:41amIt isn’t just Muslims who think that the dominant culture should change to accommodate them–there are plenty of others already here and born here too–just think about it.
Report Post »Rapunzel
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 1:30pmRhoadrash and Momsense – I am afraid you are mistaken. Muslims don’t want a return to the 12th century; that would be far too modern. They want us to be in the 7th century.
Report Post »SIRJASON
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:17amWhatever Geert Wilders says is ditto for me. America needs a bunch of brave men just like him! Bravo!
Report Post »This video shows what the Muslim immigrations is doing to the FREE world with SHOCKING results!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9atIjykihkc&feature=player_embedded
egosumverum
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:14amGod Bless you Mr. Wilders.
Report Post »NoName22
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:12am“Wilders has pledged to support the minority government in exchange for measures that would turn away more asylum seekers, halve the number of new immigrants from nonwestern countries, ban the public wearing of face-concealing Muslim garb and force immigrants to pay for their own mandatory citizenship classes.”
======================================
Banning the face-concealing garb is wrong. There is no difference in a country that bans use or mandates use. The only time you should have to take it off is for I.D., drivers license for example. Don’t think that is fair, fine, you don’t drive.
Report Post »Prospero
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:52amI’m unaware of any natural or Constitutional right to face-concealing garb, Noname. I should think the free people in a free society can legislate standards for public dress.
Call it anything you like, but it’s not “wrong”.
Report Post »Prospero
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:53amSubjugating women, on the other hand, by forcing them to conceal themselves so as to better dehumanize them….that’s wrong…..
Report Post »jzs
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 1:08pmThat’s exactly right, there is nothing in the United States Constitution that says the Federal Government cannot tell people what they can and cannot wear. We are a free people.
Report Post »RichardSaunders
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:07amAn American dark moment in history is slavery, likewise, a European Colonial powers dark moment is the period of colonialism. Today, the Dutch (and other European nations) live with their history of colonialism via the liberal immigration policies of the former colonies… Yet it is hard to feel empathy for either side in this discussion… perhaps the rhetoric on both sides of this argument is “over the top”?
Report Post »Muslim in Chief
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:19amYou also have to remember, who sold the Slaves to the Dutch in the first place. Just to bring you up to speed here, it was the Muslims.
Report Post »moelarrycurly
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 12:45pmYes the Dutch Slave trade was supplied by muslims, and tribal leaders in Africa who were basically selling the spoils of war on other weaker tribes. it’s important to note-that slavery still occurs and is socially acceptable in those regions. The Dutch were guilty of popularizing a loophole in the international agreement at the time, against slavery….
Report Post »Muslim in Chief
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:06amOf Course the Muslims scream hate. They love to play victim. It is ok for them to Burn flags, say they hate America, and behead people. But if anyone says anything against Islam, they scream like raped baboons. Islam is a system of control, and it is a system that only has room for Muslims no Infidels need apply.
The only free speech that is acceptable in Islam, is that of Muslims and no one else.
Report Post »Marcobob69
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:29amMuslim In Chief, you are absolutely right! People in the west need to wake up, a mosque at Ground Zero, a muslim flag over the White House, it goes on and on. Beware, people of the US!!! Not all muslims are radical, but there are enough of them to make our citizens wary.
Report Post »Prospero
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:47amMuslims employ what they know of weak, hand-wringing bedwetters (liberals) to censor any dissent to multiculti policy. Just scream “hate”, and you’re done. That‘s all the further a liberal’s brain works, it’s Pavlovian, they are robots.
Muslims have exploited the generous welfare entitlements to establish residence in the Netherlands…on the taxpayer’s dime of course…and then outbreed them ten to one. It’s a basic principle of Islamic domination.
http://islamineurope.blogspot.com/2009/08/netherlands-mohamed-most-popular-name.html
“Mohamed is by far the most popular name for babies in the four major cities in the Netherlands. Unlike what is often reported, the name of the Muslim prophet is also in the national top twenty.”
Report Post »pmjme
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 1:25pmThe Dutch people let this happen. The question I have is why?
Report Post »Thomas Payne
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 3:41pmEurope is “allowing” this to happen because it can no longer sustain or replace its population. They literally are breeding themselves out of existence, so they have to import a lot of their labor, i.e. Muslims. Europe is a lost cause and will be a Muslim dominated continent by 2050. The USA is barely maintaining it’s population, ~2.3 children per household if I remember correctly. Muslim families avg. 7-10 children per household in the USA.
So, if we don’t want to be dominated by Sharia law within 2-3 generations encourage your families to have MORE CHILDREN. For people who claim I am fear mongering, i’m not. It’s simple math. Once they reach the majority of the population, do you think they are going to vote for the likes of Joe “plugs” Biden? I don’t think so. Once they have the majority in congress, the supreme court, federal and circuit courts, guess what, welcome to sharia in America.
Report Post »Wendy in FL
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:01amPray for Wilders. He is a hero. We need someone just like him here. For the record, it is not that he is anti-Moroccan or anti-Arab as the woman in the article seems to think, he is against the ideology of Islam and we in the west need to heed his warning: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQOCcx5V9RI .
Report Post »diesel71dan
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:32amWendy, you are exactly right. Somehow it seems people want to clarify Muslims or Islam as a race. One’s religion has nothing to do with race or ethnicity. I guess if people realized that this political ideology is a so called “religion” and not ethnic, it would no longer be able to cry RACISM!
Report Post »neverending
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:06amGood for you Wendy, you are exactly right and yes indeed we had better wake up here and take heed. Absolutely, please keep him in our prayers.
Report Post »HiredMind Blog
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:37amWendy et al, we have someone like this here: http://atlasshrugs2000.typepad.com/
She’s not a politician, but she’s fearless and incredibly tenacious when it comes to calling Islam what it is: a 7th-century death cult.
Report Post »theninthplanet
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:58amIf all Mexicans were Muslim, I don‘t think Europe would have any problem with Arizona’s law.
Report Post »JKN
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:29amGeert Wilders is a national hero as proven by the fact that his Freedom Party recently gained a substantial number of seats in Parliament. Furthermore, why is speaking the truth considered “hate” speech? False cries of “racism” ring all over this world… Just like here in America.
Report Post »moonpeace
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 12:10pmMuslims are causing most of this problem themselves. with constant rhetoric of hating Christians and America’s government and predicting the Islamic flag will someday wave over the White House. Not while I am alive it won’t! It isn’t us causing the problems. Call me an islamophobe if you want, I don’t care. I don’t want these people moving in next door to me or even on the same street…but it is because they hate me, not I them. I try to avoid problems.
Report Post »Major Infidel
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 4:12pmGood, they shouldn’t feel safe. Hopefully we can exact the same feelings here in the states before it’s too late. These barbarians should be treated like the rabid animals that they are.
GREAT job Geert! This article just won you another 20 euro donation from the Major. Much love Mr. Wilders and thank you for having the balls that so many do not these days. Now, if we can only shake the silly Liberalism out of you, the UK will really have a great man in their society! Muah!
Report Post »chatmandu002
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 6:56pmPeople going on trial for hate speech?? This could be the US in a couple of years if our Campaigner-in-Chief and his friends keep getting their way.
Report Post »jzs
Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:57pmGreat job indeed! The Koran is an evil book and should be banned from every civilized country. If you need further convincing, here are some translated passages to tell you about Sharia law:
“All [children] who curse their mother or father shall be put to death.”
“They found a man that gathered sticks upon the holy day and Allah said, ‘The man shall surely be put to death: everyone shall stone him with stones, and he died, as Allah commanded.”
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear.” The book condones slavery!
“…[if a girl is found not to be a virgin on her wedding night], they shall bring the girl to the entrance of her father’s house and shall stone her to death.”
Why would any civilized society allow a book proposing Sharia law to be owned or printed in their country???
Report Post »ufrightenme
Posted on October 7, 2010 at 4:18pmShame on them.
Report Post »angrymob
Posted on October 11, 2010 at 3:17amWell put.
Report Post »