Dutch MPs have backed a move to criminalise chanting of the Pro-Palestinian “from the river to the sea” slogan.
Their decision follows a motion by the far-right PVV party, which says the chant should be seen as a “call to violence”. The motion was passed by a one-vote margin, reports the Dutch News.
Nevertheless, the motion will have no direct consequences for protesters because it is up to the prosecution service to decide whether to bring charges, clarifies Justice Minister Dilan Yesilgöz.
While Geert Wilders, the leader of the PVV party that initiated the motion, welcomed the vote in a post on X, the coalition parties were divided on the issue, some arguing that the measure would compromise the independence of the judiciary.
“Politicians should not step into the role of judges by drawing up lists of statements that are criminal offences,” NSC MP Sandra Palmen said.
Photo credit: AP Photo/Andrew Medichini