Criminal Limits on Freedom of Expression
Freedom of expression is a fundamental value, but the legislator limits it where expression creates a real danger to the rights of others. The Criminal Code establishes three provisions in this direction: article 151 on threats, article 157 on the violation of private-life information or personal data, and article 256 on works propagandising a cult of violence or cruelty. Charges built on these provisions bring journalists, bloggers and activists before the court. This page explains each article, the attached sanctions and the available defence.