Mr Frattini believes that by agreeing to limits on free speech Europe will send a message to the Muslim world. Quote:
"We are aware of the consequences of exercising the right of free expression, we can and we are ready to self-regulate that right".Read it and weep, because it marks the beginning of the end for free speech in Europe.
UPDATE
It looks like Frattini is trying to back away from his earlier pronouncements. Dzeno, a Romany association in Eastern Europe, has a statement from him in response to the Telegraph article. He makes clear that he has no powers to introduce press restrictions and was only attempting to initiate a dialogue - “How are we to reconcile freedom of expression and respect for each individual's deepest convictions?"
"It is a dialogue on such a question which I would be willing to facilitate but I will not impose such a role on any party if such a need would not be felt."These look like weasel words to me. And it still doesn't sound like Frattini is aware of the real import of what he said.
I'd criticize anyone who suggested renouncing press freedom where it conflicts with religious sensibilities, but when the person proposing it is the European commissioner for justice, freedom and security, you really have to wonder if he's up to the job.
Or it could just be that security trumps freedom.
