Dutch public broadcaster answers anti-Islamic film

Michael Hedges March 25, 2008

Two years ago publication of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad sparked violence and rage. In the name of freedom of speech the Danish government took the side of the publishers. Nobody wants the story repeated.

Dutch Member of Parliament Geert Wilders, a rather far right wing fellow, says he’s produced a short film showing that Islam is the “enemy of freedom.” He set up a website to promote his views and the film. In the event no television broadcasters would air the film, and there has been no interest, he would post it to the site for all to see next week (March 31). Yesterday (March 24) the sites’ web host, Network Solutions, said  “…with the dialogue that's happening throughout the world we've made the choice to suspend the site…”.

One report from the Netherlands suggests that the Dutch Muslim Channel (Nederlandse Moslim Omroep) has offered to broadcast Wilders film. It’s difficult to mount a good protest if there’s nothing to protest. Dutch media law does not allow for a priori censorship. The European Convention on Human Rights expressly assures to all European citizens the freedom of expression.

Network Solutions is based in the United States. Under terms of its agreement with customers – almost universal – its acceptable use policy forbids websites that contain “profane, indecent, or otherwise objectionable material of any kind or nature.”  Network Solutions said it is investigating before determining whether or not the site would be removed permanently.

Almost immediately the Czech ultra-right National Party offered to host Wilders’ film on its website.

Most people try to avoid trouble, even when standing on principle. The Danish government, its media and its people sacrificed heart and treasure for the principle of free speech. The Dutch government and its media, studiously noting the events of the previous two years, have taken a different, more pro-active tact.

Dutch public international broadcaster Radio Netherlands Worldwide has released its own short film about Geert Wilders’ short film, tackling questions about freedom of speech and the press. (Read RNWs press release here with links to the website)

Wilders comments in a YouTube clip resulted in the government of Pakistan blocking the site globally for several hours last month. Pakistan authorities said Wilders’ clip was offensive to Islam.

"I disagree strongly with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it."

attributed to Voltaire