In Germany, denying the Holocaust or spreading Nazi propaganda is a criminal offence and may entail severe punishment. In the United States, such statements are protected under the First Amendment to the Constitution, protecting free speech. Denying the Holocaust is considered to be one legitimate view among many. And yet, the German constitution also claims to protect freedom of expression. How come certain “opinions” may not be voiced? Does the German constitution outlaw certain views because of events in German history? How are the distinctions drawn? Where does the First Amendment draw the line? How does the U.S. Constitution deal with potentially dangerous propaganda?

These are just a few of the questions which will be examined by experts in constitutional law from the United States and Germany in a panel discussion, taking a close look at comparative aspects of U.S. and German media law.

Die Veranstaltung hat am 28. März 2008 in Englisch stattgefunden.