Dries Van Langenhove appeals conviction for 'hate speech' lecture at Leuven University

Dries Van Langenhove is challenging his conviction by the Leuven correctional court, which previously fined him 4,000 euros for inciting hatred. The conviction stemmed from a lecture delivered at the University of Leuven, where he allegedly presented a systematically negative portrayal of certain groups, including Black Africans and Roma women.

“

It was not made sufficiently clear which specific passages were punishable.

The court had emphasized the gravity of the offenses, stating they "run counter to the foundations of a democratic legal order." The ruling noted that Van Langenhove's statements contributed to an atmosphere of intolerance and division, exacerbating the risks of discrimination, intimidation, social exclusion, and violence.

“

The accused's statements contribute to a climate of intolerance and division. Racism pits population groups against each other and increases the risk of discrimination, intimidation, social exclusion, and violence.

However, Van Langenhove disputes the verdict. His lawyer, Piet Noë, argued that the court failed to clearly specify which passages were deemed punishable. Furthermore, Van Langenhove contends that he was simply presenting facts and did not utter anything criminal. He characterized the lecture as a socio-political critique rather than a direct call for hatred or violence.

“

I simply presented facts and said nothing punishable.

In addition to contesting the substance of the conviction, the defense is also appealing the 4,000 euro fine. The legal team is seeking an acquittal or, at minimum, a review or reduction of the imposed penalty.

“

We are asking for acquittal, or at least a review or reduction of the imposed sentence.