The World - News from Sept. 28, 1989

Hungary’s Parliament adopted a law giving people the right to express opinions or advocate political and social change, further expanding freedom of speech before multi-party elections next year. The bill and a related amendment of the criminal procedure law are part of a package of legislation designed to bring Hungary’s laws in line with moves toward a pluralistic system and with international covenants on human rights. Under the penal code amendment, which takes effect immediately, expressing one’s private opinion or advocating political or social change can no longer be considered crimes.