Australia enacts strict penalties for hate symbols and crimes after Musk's nazi salute controversy
A new law in Australia mandates at least one year in prison for the Roman salute. This is part of strict regulations against hate crimes.
The Australian parliament has adopted new regulations aimed at combating hate crimes. The new law mandates at least one year in prison for publicly displaying symbols such as the Roman salute. Acts of terrorism carry a minimum sentence of six years.
The legislation also includes at least three years in prison for financing terrorist groups. Supporting the use of force and threatening violence based on race, religion, disability, ethnic origin, or gender identity is prohibited.
The bill was introduced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's Labour government in response to rising antisemitic sentiments. Despite criticism from the opposition and some legal circles, the regulations were adopted without amendments.
Reactions to the new regulations
The Australian Legal Council expressed disappointment with introducing mandatory sentences, which were regarded as arbitrary and limited the right to a fair trial. Prime Minister Albanese, despite initial opposition to mandatory penalties, emphasised in an interview with Sky News that individuals driven by antisemitism must be held criminally accountable.
Recently, there have been a series of antisemitic attacks in Australia, including arson of synagogues and care centres in Sydney and Melbourne. Swastikas appeared on buildings and cars. Approximately 117,000 Jews live in Australia, constituting 0.46 per cent of the country's population.
Controversies surrounding Elon Musk
Elon Musk found himself at the centre of controversy after performing a gesture reminiscent of the Roman salute during Donald Trump's inauguration. Media worldwide interpreted this gesture as fascist, sparking a wave of criticism. Musk refutes the accusations, claiming the media uses "dirty tricks" and comparisons to Hitler are hackneyed.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticised Musk for supporting far-right positions, which was met with a sharp reaction from the billionaire. Musk called Scholz a "fool" and emphasised that his gesture was an expression of support for Trump supporters, not a Nazi salute.
