Norway Finally Repeals Blasphemy Law

Even though the law hadn’t been used to convict anyone in more than 100 years, Norway finally scrapped its blasphemy law this week in the wake of the Charlie Hebdo attacks:

Norway has officially repealed its longstanding blasphemy legislation this week in a symbolic gesture aimed at supporting the freedom of speech in the country.

According to section 142 of the Norwegian Penal Code, those who broke the law could face fines or six months in prison.

It’s a long time coming. How shameful that any civilized country would have this sorts of law in the books, even if it wasn’t really enforceable.

Hey, Ireland. It’s your turn now.

(Image via Shutterstock)