Hakan Aydin

A proposed law that stipulates punishment for denying the alleged Armenian genocide is back on France’s agenda. The proposal, which designates punishment for denying the so-called Armenian genocide with a fine of 45,000 euros and up to five years imprisonment, will be discussed in the plenary session of the French parliament on Oct. 12.

Observers are optimistic that the proposal will be adopted because of the upcoming elections and the Armenian Diaspora’s intensifying efforts. It has been reported that the French politicians would not be able to stand against the draft, even if they were hesitant about it, because of the Armenian Diaspora’s influential lobby.

In order for the draft to be implemented it must be adopted by the National Assembly on Oct. 12 and then ratified by the French Senate without any amendments and revisions. Following Senate approval, the draft also requires the president’s ratification.

Freedom of speech? Riiiight…