Violence in Valencia

EN E-007916/2017 Answer given by Ms Jourová on behalf of the Commission (26.2.2018) The Commission does not possess information on the events described by the Honourable Member. At European level, Article 1 of the Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia obliges Member States to criminalise the public incitement to violence and hatred, including the denial, gross trivialisation and condoning of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity, when directed by reference to race, colour, religion, descent or national or ethnic origin. The requirements of Article 1 of the Framework Decision have been transposed into the Spanish legal system under Article 510 of the Criminal Code. However, it is the competence of national authorities to investigate, prosecute and try in accordance with applicable national legislation individual cases of alleged hate motivated speech and crime and ensure that fundamental rights are respected as provided by its national constitutions and in accordance with international legal obligations. The Commission cannot replace national authorities and, in particular, competent courts, in such an assessment. In order to build capacity of national authorities to effectively prevent and counter hate speech and hate crime, the Commission has been stepping up its work with national law enforcement and judicial authorities, including by providing guidance on best practices and supporting training through targeted funding.