During the election campaign it is important clearly explain the difference between hate speech and incitement to discrimination, and freedom of expression. Law enforcement officers are trained in this regard, said Tudor Borș, deputy head of the Chisinau Police Department, during an IPN debate on Wednesday.

“Hate speech and incitement to discrimination is a violation of the law, a violation of a person’s rights. It is important to make a distinction between freedom of expression, the right to freedom of expression provided by law and hate speech. At the same time, electoral competitors are special subjects of these legal provisions. We’re talking about political parties, independent candidates or the initiative group, and so on. We will continue to train officers in these matters and, at the same time, our officers may ask other competent institutions for guidance. We have the Council for the Prevention of Discrimination, among other institutions that can give advice whether there is a violation or not”, said Tudor Borș.

“I’d like to stress that the sanctions are quite heavy, with fines for individuals ranging from 7,500 to 12,500 lei and for entities from 12,500 to 20,000 lei”, he added.

Tudor Borș mentioned that several Ministry of the Interior departments are involved in the electoral period and on election day in ensuring public order. He urged citizens to refrain from engaging in hate speech and abide by the rest of the regulations.

The debate was the first installment of a series of debates on the local elections, run by IPN with the support of the Soros Moldova Foundation.