Debate on freedom of expression after the terrorist attack in France

When teacher Samuel Paty was assassinated in Paris after showing Muhammad characters, the discussion about freedom of speech and Islamist extremism flared up in the media. French President Macron faces harsh criticism from Turkish President Erdogan for his statements in connection with the terrorist attack, reports Sydsvenskan.

On October 16, social studies teacher Samuel Paty was murdered by a Chechen refugee in Paris. After the murder, which was classified as an act of terrorism, did Macron statements in which he emphasized the importance of combating extremist Islamism and the currents within Islam that are incompatible with the French Republic. He also emphasized the importance of integrating Muslim believers into French society and defending freedom of expression.

Erdogan in Turkey reacted strongly to Macron's statement "Islamists want our future", which he considers to be a misrepresentation against Muslims. Erdogan believes that Muhammad caricatures are used to intimidate Muslims under the guise of freedom of speech. Erdogan responded with the statement that "Macron should undergo a psyche test". In several countries in the Middle East, people are now being called upon to boycott French goods and demonstrations against Macron have been carried out in several places, writes South Sweden.

A question of freedom of expression

The reporting in Swedish media has primarily been about the importance of distinguishing between terrorist acts, which are prohibited regardless of motive, and something completely different, namely how great the freedom of expression should be. In France, several demonstrations to stand up for freedom of expression have taken place and Macron's statements after the terrorist attack are seen as a strong mark against violent extremism.

Expressen writes how the focus should be on other countries' abuses of Muslims, such as China. France's large Muslim minority are full citizens with rights, without denying the existence of discrimination. In addition, several indigenous Muslim leaders have welcomed Macron's crackdown on extremism. The quarrel between France and Turkey is about freedom of expression, not the view of Muslims writing South Sweden.

Sweden has something to learn from France

Aftonbladet writes that the latest developments in France show that the threats from Islamist extremism are serious. Macron has taken several measures to counter radicalization and Islamism. Sweden and Europe should do the same, writes Tomas Tobé, Member of the European Parliament (M).

Marcon's statements and actions in connection with the act are admirable writings Expressen. When it comes to Islamism, Sweden has something to learn from France, writes Lisa Magnusson and DN.