Experts and representatives of the state have dissenting opinions about the bill on the combating of separatism and extremism. The issue was developed in the program “Fabrika” on Publika TV channel, IPN reports.
Lawyer Vitalie Nagacevschi considers the provisions of the bill may infringe on the basic human rights and fundamental freedoms. “This law is possibly good, but it limits the right to freedom of opinion and expression. Let’s take separatism. Why some groups of people should be banned from expressing their wish to unite with Romania or Turkey or from promoting their ideas peacefully?” he asked.
Constitutional law expert Nicolae Osmochescu said the bill guarantees particular constitutional norms. “There are constitutional norms that ban separatism and extremism, but there is no organic law to regulate related offenses. This bill criminalizes separatism and extremism. I think it was well-thought-out,” he stated.
Valentin Dediu, ex-director of the Security and Information Service (SIS), consider such a law is very necessary, but some of its provisions should be modified. “Article 7 provides that the investigated person must be informed about this fact when the investigation is completed. This can negatively affect other investigations. Also, the investigated persons can anytime go to the Center for Personal Data Protection where they can find out that the SIS is inquiring about them,” he said.
Deputy Head of Parliament Sergiu Sarbu said the bill contains instruments for preventing the infringement of the right to opinion. “The fears that the freedom of expression will be affected are not justified. The bill refers to acts of violence, calls to violence and attacks on the country’s territorial integrity. It is necessary for preventing the occurrence of events like those in Ukraine,” he stated.
