Monitor: Kalinak Believes Laws Regarding Freedom of Speech Need to Be Clarified

(STVR, 'O 5 minut 12', May 18) Speaking on STVR's discussion programme 'O 5 minut 12' (Five Minutes to Twelve) on Sunday, Defence Minister Robert Kalinak (Smer-SD) stated that he believes that legislation concerning freedom of speech needs to be clarified, arguing that current laws are poorly written, while opposition Christian Democratic Movement (KDH) MP Viliam Karas stated that he is fundamentally cautious when it comes to any interference with freedom of speech. "I think we need to make it [the legislation] more precise. I'm not saying we should make it stricter, but to clearly define what is what. People should know that if the speed limit is 60 or 50 and I drive 70, I've crossed the line. Unfortunately, when it comes to this law, it's not entirely clear what I still can and can't say," Kalinak noted. He pointed to the fact that the police are investigating MEP and Smer-SD vice-chairman Lubos Blaha for using a greeting from the socialist era, while opposition 'Slovakia' party leader Igor Matovic has faced no consequences for climbing the gate of the Government Office and shouting from it. Kalinak added that he's a supporter of freedom of speech and that it should be upheld as broadly as possible. "Nevertheless, it's [freedom of speech] still being abused," Karas remarked in reaction to Kalinak's words. He believes one must be careful about interfering with freedom of speech, as it could come back like a boomerang. He expressed curiosity about a draft proposal against the spread of hate online, which the Interior Ministry is preparing, but thinks it won't help reduce tensions. lin