EU to tighten net terrorism laws

 

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By Reuters

Posted on 21 Apr 2008 at 10:58

The European Union is to tighten laws against incitement to terrorism in order to clamp down on militant groups' use of the internet.

The new laws will make it easier for police to shut down websites used to recruit terrorists, or host bomb-making instructions.

"The internet is used to inspire and mobilise local terrorists ... functioning as a virtual training camp," says an EU report. "The new legislation will make it easier for law enforcement authorities to get cooperation from internet service providers to prevent crimes."

"Each member state shall take the necessary measures to ensure that terrorist-linked offences include ... public provocation to commit a terrorist offence, recruitment for terrorism, training for terrorism."

In an effort to assuage civil rights campaigners, the law says that the new measure may not be used to restrict freedom of expression and freedom of the press.

Before entering into force, the law still needs to be confirmed by ministers after a number of national parliaments have discussed it.

A European Commission official says countries like Spain and Italy already punish public provocation to terrorism but others, like Scandinavian countries, would have to change their legislation to apply the new EU laws.