Greece unveils plans to toughen anti-racism laws

Draft legislation by Justice Party provides for prison terms, large fines for those who deny Holocaust

ATHENS, Greece — The Greek government on Friday unveiled plans to toughen laws against racism and prohibit “malevolent” denial of the Holocaust, amid an increase in racist violence.

The draft legislation presented by the Justice Ministry provides for maximum three-year prison terms, and fines up to 20,000 euros ($27,000), for people found guilty of inciting racist crimes.

Similar penalties would apply to those convicted of denying the significance of genocides, crimes against humanity and war crimes — in a way that could incite violence, hatred, or either threaten or insult ethnic, racial or religious groups.

The draft legislation will be forwarded to Parliament for debate.

Greece has seen a rise in violence targeting Asian and African immigrants since its financial crisis erupted in 2009.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.

Most Popular
read more:
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.