RFE/RL - 02.24.2003

 

 

 

 

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Moldovan Parliament Approves Presidential Bill of Fighting Extremism

Parliament on 21 February approved the bill proposed by President Vladimir Voronin on fighting extremism, RFE/RL's Chisinau bureau reported (see "RFE/RL Newsline," 18 November 2002). The law stipulates that political parties, public and religious associations, and media outlets can be suspended or -- in the event of a repeat offense -- outlawed if a court rules that they promote violent overthrow of the constitutional regime, the violation of the country's territorial integrity, undermining state power, or setting up illegal armed organizations. According to the law, individuals found guilty of participation in extremist activities cannot be employed in the civil service, in the judicial system, or as teachers for five years after being sentenced. Opposition parties and human rights organizations oppose the law, warning that it could be used to silence criticism of the government.