The constitution, joining or supporting of fascist, racist or xenophobe organizations will be punished with up to ten years in jail. Jail terms will be also given for the spread and use of fascist, racist and xenophobe symbols in public, as a bill that was given a first reading by Parliament provides, IPN reports.

Under the bill, the persons found guilty of such deeds will be punished with five to ten years in jail and with ban on holding particular posts or performing particular activities for a period of up to ten years. The legal entities will be punished with a fine of up to 150,000 lei and with liquidation.

The denial or public challenging of the Holocaust or its effects will carry a jail term of up to five years and ban on holding particular posts or performing particular activities for a period of up to five years.

The bill that was drafted by a group of Socialist MP also stipulates punishments for the promotion of the cults of persons who are convicted definitively for crimes against the peace and security of mankind, for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The informative note to the bill says that by such a law Moldova will show its readiness to fight radical discrimination, xenophobia and anti-Semitism. Stipulating punitive measures for such deeds, the bill is designed to consolidate the anti-discrimination legislation and to improve teaching and learning about the Holocaust.