March 7, 2001

3:39 AM

Euro-court outlaws criticism of EU,and thus demonstrates what inevitably will happen when most European governments have communists(or "former communists") on board. PS: beware that any reply to this tread could be seen upon as additional critisism against the Holy Union...
posted by frednorman (11 comments total)

"Most European governments have communists on board"? Let me see... France, Italy (not in gvt. but supporting albeit reluctantly the centre-"left" coalition) err... who else? Many, if not most, European Communist Parties are against the EU for being an "instrument of global capital" or something.
As for "former communists" most have proven to be the most ardent capitalists after having being "reformed". See the US-style redistribution of income in Europe in favour of the rich during the last decade.
This shameful act of stupidity by the ECJ applies (Telegraph europhobia notwithstanding) to EU employees *only*, and, even as such, should be condemned (I really doubt that ECJ judges are communists BTW). I assure you that thousands of EU citizens, parties, organizations, EU parliamentarians etc. criticize the Union daily, on a variety of issues. I haven't seen anybody arrested yet and I don't foresee anyone being arrested in the future.
posted by talos at 4:38 AM on March 7, 2001

Yes, I can really see the spectre of communism lurking behind this decision...
posted by lagado at 5:06 AM on March 7, 2001

Reading the article it looks like this bloke was sacked by his employers for criticising them. The EU connection is surely the only reason the Telegraph - not generally a paper staunchly committed to employee's rights - has leapt on it.

I'm no fan of the European Commision - its track record of secrecy and corruption is as big a hindrance to the European project as any anti-European movement in member countries. But the Telegraph's interpretation of the matter is somewhat distorted to say the least.
posted by freakytrigger at 5:26 AM on March 7, 2001

I am waiting for the American planes to bomb Paris and Geneva any time now. We have to protect the freedom of the European people.

All of a sudden, the push for increasing the defence budget does not look idiotic. We do need all those extra missiles and all those stuff to fight against those damn EU governments and set their people free.
posted by tamim at 6:09 AM on March 7, 2001

A government employee was fired for dissidence, a ruling was passed stating that, contrary to UK law, the commission could restrict dissent in order to "protect the rights of others" and punish individuals who "damaged the institution's image and reputation".

No one thinks this is the pebble that starts the avalanche?
posted by Mick at 7:10 AM on March 7, 2001

No one thinks this is the pebble that starts the avalanche?

You haven't been looking at many employment contracts. Expect a counterclaim under the Human Rights Act, and, um, more money for lawyers.
posted by holgate at 7:41 AM on March 7, 2001

I doubt that there will be an avalanche of political repression in Europe any time soon. But the ruling is disturbing and somewhat contrary to free speech. The EU should sign in a bill of rights guaranteeing free speech and overturn the ruling.
posted by Loudmax at 7:42 AM on March 7, 2001

Fred, could I see some voting records of communist parties in EU member countries regarding corporate globalization? On a lessor level, some statements by Communist party members in European countries supporting the EU, or this particular ruling.

You've made a huge assertion there — Communists side with authority regardless the case — without providing any supporting evidence.

Til then, this thread is based on a factually incorrect statement and it needs to be rectified.

I’m waiting Fred.
posted by capt.crackpipe at 9:15 AM on March 7, 2001

You haven't been looking at many employment contracts.

This was a government employee, not Fred the french friar at Mickey D's
posted by Mick at 9:18 AM on March 7, 2001

Fred the french friar at Mickey D's

"Bonjour, I'm Friar Tucque, may I take zee ordair?"

Sorry, Mick, not trying to pick on you, but the misspelling cracked me up. ;)

posted by Skot at 10:09 AM on March 7, 2001

Who says it was a mispelling, maybe I'm just wity like that(hooked on fonics werked 4 mee).
posted by Mick at 1:12 PM on March 7, 2001