Basic democratic values do exist

Submitted by Paul Wilders (Netherlands), Feb 16, 2010 at 11:52

Dear Charles,

This is the crux from your last comment:

"When I am refering to some basic Democratic values which I see eroding in this country (freedom of speech and even thought, to name just two), I truly believe that these core values belong to the foundations of a free Democratic state."

As it is freedom of speech is plain and simply part of Dutch law. That's a good thing for sure. Fortunately, Dutch law does not only provide rights such as freedom of speech, but builds in protection against abuse from rights as well. For one reason only: to prevent abuse leading to all sorts of personal and social damage. That's where art. 137 comes into play. Thus, Dutch law provides freedom as well as protection at the same time. A perfect balance.

So the only conclusion possible is, there is no eroding from Dutch law at all. This has been and still is Dutch law as it exists for ages.

What is happening as for Geert Wilders is plain and simple as well: he will be judged according to this long existing Dutch law, especially if or not he has been violating art. 137. If he has, he will he will be penalized in a way court feels fit. If he has not, he walks. It's as simple as that.

Democracy build upon law is in the civilized western world regarded as the foundation from society. It's good to know this applies to The Netherlands as well.

Best regards,

Paul Wilders
Dutch Politics

Note: Opinions expressed in comments are those of the authors alone and not necessarily those of Daniel Pipes. Original writing only, please. Comments are screened and in some cases edited before posting. Reasoned disagreement is welcome but not comments that are scurrilous, off-topic, commercial, disparaging religions, or otherwise inappropriate. For complete regulations, see the "Guidelines for Reader Comments".