People in the Czech Republic have been warned that expressing sympathy for Russia on social media might result in up to three years in prison.
In a news release, the country’s Attorney General, Igor Str, stated that it was “necessary to inform citizens that the current situation associated with the Russian Federation’s attack on Ukraine may have implications for their freedom of expression.”
The restrictions are being enforced as part of criminal code provisions that make it illegal to approve a criminal offence or to deny, question, approve, or justify genocide.
“[F]reedom of speech also has its limits in a democratic state governed by the rule of law,” asserted Stríž, announcing that anyone who “publicly (including at demonstrations, on the Internet or on social networks) agreed (accepted or supported the Russian Federation’s attacks on Ukraine) or expressed support or praised the leaders of the Russian Federation in this regard, they could also face criminal liability under certain conditions.”
The official Czech Police website further stated that “dozens of comments in internet discussions approving the Russian invasion and the activities of the Russian army” were being “closely monitored.”
According to a report by Radio Prague International, someone found in violation of the criminal code might face up to three years in prison, however, bringing charges would be difficult.
Forsided, 02.03.2022
Source: Europe Infowars