Hungary's parliament approves new rules restricting public use of swastika, red star
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Hungary's parliament has overwhelmingly approved a modified plan to restrict the display of Nazi and communist symbols such as the swastika and red star.
Similar rules were declared unconstitutional in February because they were found to be too broad and an excessive restriction on freedom of speech. But lawmakers believe they have clarified the rules to pass constitutional muster.
The proposal taking effect April 30 was approved Monday in a 320-6 vote, with two abstentions. The ban also covers SS insignia, the arrow cross — a symbol of a 1940s Hungarian pro-Nazi party — and the hammer and sickle. The new rule specifies that the symbols are banned if they upset peace and order.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The court decision followed a similar ruling by the European Court of Human Rights.