[FYI] FI: Proposed law raises controversy over freedom of expression on internet message boards

["Axel H Horns" <horns@ipjur.com>]

http://www.helsinki-hs.net/news.asp?id=20021216IE5

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Home - Monday 16.12.2002  

Proposed law raises controversy over freedom of expression on 
internet message boards  


A bill for a new law on freedom of expression has sparked a dispute 
over control of the content of internet message boards. Opponents of 
the proposed legislation say that such a law would hurt freedom of 
expression on the net, and would push large message boards out of 
Finland. The main opponents of the proposal include companies such as 
Sonera and Jippii, who maintain large internet portals. Internet 
experts are also opposed to the move, which they consider 
impractical. The proposal has found support among the traditional 
media. The Parliament's constitutional committee is expected to take 
a stand on the proposal in January.  

The bill would make internet publications responsible for their 
content. Now only the individual writers are responsible for what 
they write. The proposed new law would mean that internet 
publications would be required to examine messages sent to their 
message boards in advance. Large portals feel that this would be an 
overwhelming task both physically and financially, because they get 
thousands of messages each day.  

[...]  

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