The latest charges against Wilders are based on comments he made against Moroccan migrants prior to and after his 2014 election campaign.
The politician, known for his harsh stance on immigration, questioned followers at his Party for Freedom’s meeting as to whether they wanted to see more or fewer Moroccans entering the country. As the heated audience responded with chants of "Fewer! Fewer! Fewer!" Wilders tossed off the remark, “We'll take care of it," as recalled by prosecutor Wouter Bos on Friday.
According to Bos, this case brings together a ban on discrimination and the right to freedom of expression, grounds upon which the Dutch constitution rests.
"The importance of freedom of speech is great. It is one of the essential elements of our democratic society," Bos said, but added that “freedom of speech is not absolute."
Supporters of Wilders, looking glum, rallied outside the courtroom wearing T-shirts stating "Wilders for President." Some expressed concern that the known racist wouldn’t get a fair trial.
Wilders trial begins October 31st.
