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Today, the Arnhem-Leeuwarden Court of Appeal issued its ruling in the appeal proceedings between Rutgers and Civitas Christiana. The court ruled that the earlier judgment of the preliminary relief judge remains in force and rejected all claims made by Civitas. The court emphasized that freedom of expression is not unlimited and ends where unfounded and harmful accusations begin. This important ruling once again provides strong support to parents, teachers, and schools who provide relationship and sexuality education, all aiming to ensure that children can grow up healthy, safe, and happy.
With this ruling, the Arnhem-Leeuwarden Court of Appeal once again puts a stop to disinformation, falsehoods, and online hate. The court fully ruled in favor of Rutgers on all points: the Black Book remains banned, and Civitas is not allowed to make statements that are incorrect, harmful, and unlawful.
“This ruling is a victory over hate and disinformation and once again confirms the importance of reliable information. Upholding the previous judgment reaffirms the important work of teachers, schools, parents, Rutgers, and all our partners. With this ruling in hand, we will continue to work towards a respectful public dialogue on resilience, relationships, and sexuality.”Luc Lauwers, Deputy Director Rutgers
The case was heard on April 9 of this year at the Arnhem-Leeuwarden Court of Appeal, after Civitas Christiana filed an appeal against the earlier ruling of the preliminary relief judge in Utrecht last year. Rutgers won this summary proceeding against Civitas Christiana on April 17, 2025.