The Dutch anti-Islamist MP Geert Wilders is to go on trial in Amsterdam on charges of inciting racial hatred against Muslims.
If found guilty, Mr Wilders could face up to a year in jail or a fine of up to 7,600 euros ($10,000).
The controversial politician is set to become a shadow partner of the next coalition government.
He claims that he has said nothing offensive.
Mr Wilders will stand trial on five charges of inciting hatred and discrimination against Muslims, including calling Islam fascist and likening the Koran to Hitler's Mein Kampf.
Prosecutors say Mr Wilders committed the offences in his 17-minute film Fitna, which has sparked protests across the Muslim world.
He campaigns for a stop to Muslim immigration to the Netherlands, a ban on the construction of new mosques, and a tax on headscarves.
Mr Wilders was refused entry to Britain last year, after being invited to show his film in the House of Lords.
Due to numerous death threats, he is always surrounded by bodyguards.
Mr Wilders says his mission to stop the islamisation of the Netherlands.
The judgement is expected on 4 November.
BBC
If found guilty, Mr Wilders could face up to a year in jail or a fine of up to 7,600 euros ($10,000).
The controversial politician is set to become a shadow partner of the next coalition government.
He claims that he has said nothing offensive.
Mr Wilders will stand trial on five charges of inciting hatred and discrimination against Muslims, including calling Islam fascist and likening the Koran to Hitler's Mein Kampf.
Prosecutors say Mr Wilders committed the offences in his 17-minute film Fitna, which has sparked protests across the Muslim world.
He campaigns for a stop to Muslim immigration to the Netherlands, a ban on the construction of new mosques, and a tax on headscarves.
Mr Wilders was refused entry to Britain last year, after being invited to show his film in the House of Lords.
Due to numerous death threats, he is always surrounded by bodyguards.
Mr Wilders says his mission to stop the islamisation of the Netherlands.
The judgement is expected on 4 November.
BBC
