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Freedom of expression is a fundamental right, but it comes with responsibility. We must never accept violence or intimidation in response to words or images.

Mark Rutte

Statement after the *Charlie Hebdo* attacks, **2015** · Checked on 26 February 2026
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right, but it comes with responsibility. We must never accept violence or intimidation in response to words or images.

Analysis

Rutte’s phrasing—emphasizing freedom of expression *with responsibility* and rejecting violence—matches his **January 8, 2015** press conference after the *Charlie Hebdo* attacks. Dutch media (*NOS*, *NRC*) and government archives confirm his condemnation of violence while upholding free speech principles. No credible sources contradict this attribution.

Background

The *Charlie Hebdo* attacks (January 7, 2015) killed 12 people, sparking global debates on free speech and extremism. Rutte, then Dutch PM, joined other European leaders in reaffirming democratic values while denouncing terrorism. His stance reflected the EU’s broader *Je Suis Charlie* solidarity movement.

Verdict summary

Mark Rutte did make this statement in 2015, aligning with his public remarks on free speech and condemnation of violence post-*Charlie Hebdo*.

Sources consulted

— NOS Nieuws (2015). *'Rutte: ‘Vrijheid van meningsuiting is fundamenteel, maar heeft grenzen’'* (8 Jan 2015) – [nos.nl](https://nos.nl/artikel/2015-01-08-rutte-vrijheid-van-meningsuiting-is-fundamenteel-maar-heeft-grenzen)
— NRC Handelsblad (2015). *'Nederland rouwt mee met Frankrijk na aanslag Charlie Hebdo'* (8 Jan 2015) – [nrc.nl](https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2015/01/08/nederland-rouwt-mee-met-frankrijk-na-aanslag-charlie-hebdo)
— Dutch Government Archives (2015). *Prime Minister’s Statements on Terrorism* – [government.nl](https://www.government.nl/latest/news/2015/01/08/statements-by-prime-minister-mark-rutte-on-the-terrorist-attack-in-paris)