Wilders had right to make anti-Islamic statements, court hears

Dutch race-hate trial MP Geert Wilders had a right to issue public warnings about the spread of Islam in Europe and did nothing wrong, a court heard today.

Wilders, one of the Netherlands' most popular politicians, is charged with violating hate speech laws by equating Islam to Nazism, calling for a tax on "head rags" and advocating a ban on the Koran.

His film "Fitna" argued that Islam is a violent and intolerant religion - drawing protests from Muslims around the world.

In a closing speech to his trial, lawyer Bram Moszkowicz said Wilders was exercising his right to freedom of speech and compared him to historical figures who were willing to voice unpopular opinions, including Winston Churchill and Galileo.

"Wilders makes the hate of others known, and warns about it vigorously," Mr Moszkowicz said. "Don't shoot the messenger."

Prosecutors had initially declined to press charges against Wilders, but were ordered to do so by an appeals court.

After concluding their evidence last week, prosecutors said Wilders' statements were part of legitimate political debate, acknowledged they could not prove a case against him, and called for his acquittal. But judges could still convict him.

A verdict is expected on November 5. If convicted Wilders could face up to a year of prison, though a small fine is more likely.

Alleged victims gave evidence yesterday that Wilders' remarks have poisoned opinions against Muslims, leading to problems including verbal abuse against women wearing headscarves, Moroccan youths having trouble finding jobs, and mosque burnings.

Mr Moszkowicz said that not only should Wilders be acquitted, but the whole case should be dismissed. He argued that the appeals court that ordered the trial had failed to presume Wilders innocent.

Wilders' trial is being closely watched in many countries, where immigration has created a backlash of anti-Muslim sentiment and boosted nationalist parties that are outspokenly negative toward Islam and Muslims.

With support from Wilders, a new minority Cabinet formed in the Netherlands this month plans to ban face-covering burkas and force immigrants to pay for their own mandatory citizenship classes.

It also plans to tighten asylum procedures and make it harder for immigrants to marry spouses from outside Europe.

Muslims make up about 6% of the 16.5 million Dutch population.