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Statement by Lawhouse.dk |
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Ibrahim Taouti |
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8 February 2006 The international law firm strongly denounce the publication of the twelve pictures claiming to depict the Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him). The law firm is of the opinion that all legal means should be pursued to ensure that the responsible individuals are prosecuted or held accountable according to Danish law, primarily in accordance with the penal code. The Danish penal code includes two provisions that would be suitable for the Danish authorities to bring in use. Article 140 concerns the prohibition on ‘blasphemy’ of any recognized religion and article 266b the dissemination of information that should be considered degrading towards a group of people based on their faith or religion. The law firm has yesterday filed two petitions to the office of the Attorney General’s to ensure that all aspects of the case are considered before the Attorney General decides on whether to prosecute the responsible individuals or not. This decision is expected within the next fourteen days. The petitions were filed on behalf of a Turkish newspaper and a group of Danish citizens respectively. Should the Attorney General decide to follow the populist public opinion and reject to prosecute the law firm will explore other means to hold the newspaper representatives responsible. However, the law firm expect that public prosecution will be initiated. It is the opinion of the law firm that both public and official reactions in Denmark towards the unfolding consequences of the publication display an unfortunate continuation of xenophobia and islamophobia building on prejudices towards ethnic minorities and foreign cultures. It is our hope that the events, however tragic they appear to be, will change this direction and lead to a concerted effort by all actors in the Danish society to truly embrace the global community and its diversity in respect of our agreed universal principles. The law firm understands the anger and uproar that the pictures has caused; however, the law firm also denounces any other human rights violation that may be caused by reactions towards the act of publishing the drawings. Whereas peaceful assemblies are protected by human rights, violations or threats of violations against the security of persons and of property rights should not be accepted as appropriate responses and the law firm strongly urge all parties to use peaceful means of condemnation; and eventually to forgiveness. Acts of violence or hatred towards a whole population of individuals will increase tensions and hinder constructive dialogue as a precondition for sustainable development for all parties involved. The acts may increase islamophobia and worsen the situation for Muslims living in Denmark. Sune Skadegard Thorsen Ibrahim Taouti Attorney at Law Partner |