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High Court Upholds Freedom of Expression in Controversial Koran Case

2/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The High Court overturned Hamit Coskun's conviction for a religiously aggravated public order offence.
Coskun was charged for burning a Koran and shouting anti-Islam statements outside the Turkish embassy.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) argued the actions amounted to disorderly behaviour.
The court ruled freedom of expression includes views that may offend.
The National Secular Society and Free Speech Union called for a review of the charges.

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Story summary

The High Court overturned Hamit Coskun's conviction for a religiously aggravated public order offence.
Coskun was charged for burning a Koran and shouting anti-Islam statements outside the Turkish embassy.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) argued the actions amounted to disorderly behaviour.
The court ruled freedom of expression includes views that may offend.
The National Secular Society and Free Speech Union called for a review of the charges.