Lithuanian MP proposes decriminalising hate speech without consulting convicted colleague

Lithuanian MP Vytautas Sinica has submitted a proposal to remove criminal penalties for hate speech without consulting Remigijus Žemaitaitis, a fellow lawmaker convicted under the same law, LRT reports.

Sinica, leader of the National Union party, confirmed on Thursday that he did not coordinate with Žemaitaitis or anyone outside his party before drafting the amendment. “I’ve been considering this idea for a long time,” he said, arguing that hate speech laws excessively restrict free expression. “This article creates significant problems for free speech in countries where such restrictions exist, preventing politically incorrect discussions on sensitive issues.”

The proposed amendment would strike down the first and second parts of Article 170 of the Criminal Code, which currently criminalise incitement to hatred and possession of hateful materials. Penalties under the law range from community service and fines to imprisonment for up to two years.

Žemaitaitis, leader of the far-right “Nemuno aušra” movement, was convicted under Article 170 for hate speech against Jewish people and Holocaust denial. If the amendment passes, his sentence could be reduced. Sinica acknowledged that Žemaitaitis’ case complicates the proposal’s prospects but insisted his initiative was not motivated by the convicted MP’s situation.

“I won’t evaluate Žemaitaitis’ specific case—that’s for the courts,” Sinica said. “But generally, we’re too restricted in discussing sensitive topics. For example, criticising certain cultural or religious practices, like early marriages in some Muslim communities, is often labelled as hate speech in Western Europe, leading to persecution.”

The amendment was initially scheduled for debate on Thursday but was removed from the agenda following objections from conservative MP Jurgis Razma. Žemaitaitis claimed he initially opposed Sinica’s proposal, unaware it could benefit him. “I told my faction this might not be a good project,” he said. “But now that it’s clear this is for me, the whole faction will vote 100% in favour.”

Žemaitaitis currently faces a €5,000 fine for hate speech and Holocaust denial, with an appeal pending. If the conviction is upheld, he could receive a suspended sentence.