Combating certain forms and expressions of racism and xenophobia by means of criminal law. Framework Decision

The European Parliament adopted a resolution drafted by Ozan CEYHUN (Greens/EFA, Germany) on the Commission's proposal for a framework decision. (Please refer to the document dated 23/05/02.) Parliament made it clear that the proposal does not preclude Member States from adopting or maintaining legislation affording a higher degree of protection against racism and xenophobia under criminal law. It also specified that each Member State must ensure that victims of racist or xenophobic offences have full access to information, aid facilities, effective protection, appropriate legal remedies and legal assistance.�