When will Freedom of Speech go too far?

Recent events of the Quran being burned in Sweden have sparked outrage across the world. 

Rasmus Paludin, far-right leader of Stram Kurs in Sweden, burned the Quran outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm in a ‘public demonstration.’

Make no mistake, this is not a random act of hatred. It was cold, calculated and provokeful, highlighted in the extensive legal protection Paludin had from Swedish Police authorities.

When will freedom of speech go too far?

Book burning is a heinous crime that shows utter disregard for others’ beliefs, and traditions. It’s an expression of hatred. When the book is a religious scripture, it becomes a violent act against the faithful.

Book burning was widely practised by the Nazi’s in the 1930’s to suppress Jewish schools of writing that opposed Nazi ideology. 

Sound familiar?

Why the book burning act took place

Due to fears of a possible Russian invasion in the future, Swedes are bidding to be part of NATO’s transatlantic military alliance.

However, their candidacy is currently on hold by Turkey, which demands the Nordic country to act against the activities of the terrorist groups, including the PKK and Fetullah Terrorist Organization.

Right-wing extremism is on the rise in Europe, fuelled by the media’s negative reporting about Muslims.

Paludin’s group, Stram Kurs, have been known for their anti-Islamic rhetoric, and it is not the first time the political party has been responsible for burning holy books.

In 2020, they were responsible for burning a Quran, escalating violence which led to the 2020 Sweden riots.

Despite this hateful act taking place in Sweden, Sweden’s own Prime Minister has condemned the act.

“Freedom of expression is a fundamental part of democracy, but what is legal is not necessarily appropriate, burning books that are holy to many is a deeply disrespectful act,” he says.