Hate speech laws could just be limited to incitement of hatred (what I think was their original intention), i.e. 'Catholics are stupid' vs. 'We should kill all Catholics because they are stupid'.
I'm having a hard time seeing any other interpretation as trying to make offence, a victimless crime, a criminal act.
The text of the song is irrelevant. Pussy Riot have not been tried for political protest. They were sentenced for 'inciting hatred' against the religion. I suppose their presence in the cathedral next to altar, kicking air and shouting obscenities has offended somebody.
If they have chosen another venue for their anti-Putin song, I guess the prosecution would not have any case against them.
Besides, they did not have time to really sing anything in the cathedral. The sound was added to the YouTube video later.
I think all hate speech laws should be abolished, since there is such a thin line between 'inciting hatred' and 'offending sensitivities'.
I'm having a hard time seeing any other interpretation as trying to make offence, a victimless crime, a criminal act.
Here are the actual lyrics of the song performed: http://freepussyriot.org/content/lyrics-songs-pussy-riot
As far as I can see the only words in their which might be seen as trying to inspire 'harm' are 'Virgin Mary, put Putin away'.