European Speech Laws explores the intricate web of regulations governing freedom of expression and religious practices within the European Union. It navigates the tension between protecting fundamental human rights and preventing harm, examining how EU member states grapple with hate speech and religious expression. The book highlights inconsistencies in the application of free speech across member states, despite the EU's promotion of it as a fundamental right, revealing the challenges of harmonizing legal standards in a diverse region.
The book's approach involves a historical overview of free speech jurisprudence, tracing its development from the Enlightenment to today. It provides case studies analyzing national laws and judicial decisions shaping the interpretation of free speech principles.
Progressing through its chapters, the book first introduces core concepts of freedom of expression, then analyzes case studies from EU member states, and concludes with a comparative analysis of different approaches.
