Alternattiva Demokratika has called for a change in “archaic” censorship laws in favour of a secular state and to be stronger against hate crimes.
“Censorship is not only a breach of individual rights but an anachronistic legacy which can be used arbitrarily to repress artists and minorities whose lifestyle or opinions do not conform to the views of dominant institutions. In the past weeks Malta has seen an increase in attempts to censor artists and minorities. In this regard, Malta is resembling a confessional state rather than a modern European society,” the party said in a statement.
AD also called for the replacement of the film and theatre classification board with one that issues ratings, rather than bans productions.
The play Stitching was banned for performance by the board, and is now the subject of a court case filed by production company Unifaun against the board.
“AD is also proposing that Article 208 of the Criminal Code should be deleted and the State shall not bar the individual from acquiring, placing on the market and trading any media product, with the exception of paedophile pornography – which is and should obviously remain illegal – and pictures whether still or video promoting the sexual exploitation of one of the sexes and real-life bestiality. The guiding principle should be that, barring the few exceptions mentioned, adults should be left to make their own decisions,” the party said.
The party noted that obscenity laws should also be revised and not used to censor artistic manifestation in appropriate places or the promotion of literature for adults.
AD added that while censorship rules should be overhauled, this should not serve as a loophole for hate speech. “Hate crimes and racial incitement will still be covered in the Criminal Code. AD is also calling for tougher legislation against hate crimes such as racism and xenophobia, irrespective of the religious, political or cultural belief in question. This is essential in a society based on pluralism and respect of diversity.”
AD is also proposing that the Broadcasting Authority sets a 10pm watershed for programmes suited only for adult audiences to be accompanied by warning describing the adult content before airing the programme.
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