The Need for a Council of Europe Recommendation on Combatting SLAPPs

Today, 104 civil society organisations call on the Council of Europe (CoE) to act urgently on the growing threat of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs).

SLAPPs are abusive lawsuits filed by powerful individuals and companies as a means of silencing critical expression (e.g. journalism, peaceful protest or whistleblowing). They typically use long and costly legal procedures, or the threat thereof, to intimidate and harass critics into silence.

As the statement explains, the problem of SLAPP suits is growing in Europe. The EU has promised action, but the scope of its effort remains unclear, and SLAPPs are a problem across the continent. The Council of Europe is well-equipped to take action, by issuing a recommendation to its member states with clear guidance on measures needed in national law and practice to discourage SLAPPs. You can also read the longer memorandum for CoE officials, with detailed background and information.

For more information see the website of Coalition Against SLAPPs in Europe (CASE).