Dutch Court Says Pedophile Club Cannot Be Outlawed

A Dutch court has ruled that the pedophile club Martijn cannot be outlawed, Michael van Poppel of BNO news reports.

Martijn is a Dutch association that advocates the social acceptance of pedophilia and the legalization of sexual relationships between adults and children.

In June 2012 a Dutch court deemed the group to be illegal and ordered it to disband immediately. Prosecutors had successfully argued that the club's work and ideas were contrary to public order and morality — especially since the harmful effects of child sexual abuse infringe upon the rights and interests of children.

On Tuesday the court found, on appeal, that "the activities of the association are contrary to public policy, but that there is no threat of social disruption."

The ruling echoes a June 2011 decision that the club's activities were not illegal under Dutch law because even though men associated with the club — including its former chairman — have been charged with possessing child pornography, the crimes weren't committed in connection with the club.

Tuesdya's ruling noted that the club does not provide any "tips and tricks" for adults to have sex with children.