A significant majority of the Dutch House of Representatives supports a proposed law by the Christian Union (CU) and Green-Left-PvdA to impose stricter penalties for hate crimes, offenses involving violence or insult where discrimination is a factor. This was evident in a parliamentary debate last night.
The bill, presented by CU leader Bikker and GL-PvdA leader Timmermans, aims to make it clear that all forms of discrimination are unacceptable. The proposal suggests that existing penalties for crimes like violence or insult could be increased by a third if discrimination is involved.
Timmermans emphasized that the law would support Jewish, Muslim, and LGBT communities facing exclusion. Nearly all parties back the proposal, with the positions of FvD, JA21, and PVV still unclear.
PVV’s Van Dijk expressed concerns about potential impacts on free speech. Minister Van Weel, supporting the bill, stated that hate crimes warrant tougher penalties.
The proposal is unrelated to November’s Amsterdam riots and has been in development for years. It still requires Senate approval, which is likely given the broad support.
Source: NOS