The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC) has applauded the Italian Parliament for adopting a bill that criminalises the spreading of Holocaust denial and imposes a prison of up to six years for anyone convicted of the offence. The new law also targets those who deny the existence of genocide or crimes against humanity as defined by the International Court of Justice. According to news reports, the law punishes ideas “based entirely or partly” on negationist ideology only when “there is a real danger of their dissemination.”
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“We applaud and extend our appreciation to the Italian lawmakers who voted for this historic bill and welcome this significant timely and decisive act of leadership which plainly shows that the Italian Parliament is wholeheartedly committed to fighting extremism and radicalism and bigotry. By enacting this law, the Italian parliament has sent a powerful message that it will not tolerate Holocaust deniers and that it will punish anyone who seeks to desecrate the memory of the victims and spread racial hatred. As anti-Semitism increases dramatically across Europe, we encourage all political and religious leaders to follow suit and to demonstrate that they are serious about fighting and denouncing this insidious and dangerous movement.”
The Anti-Defamation Commission, founded in 1979, is Australia’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through educational programs that combat bigotry, prejudice and all forms of hatred.
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on (03) 9272 5677