EU Agrees Rules To Protect Journalists From Abusive Lawsuits
Muhammad Irfan Published November 30, 2023 | 04:20 PM
Brussels, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Nov, 2023) The European Parliament and EU member states agreed draft new rules on Thursday that are intended to protect journalists and activists from abusive lawsuits used to silence public criticism.
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said on X, formerly Twitter, that she welcomed the agreement to "protect those who try to reveal inconvenient truths".
So-called Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) are aimed at intimidating critics with burdensome legal action.
Even if the actions sometimes seem likely to fail, media outlets and NGOs are often forced to back down, fearing lengthy and costly legal battles.
The new rules would allow a person targeted by a SLAPP lawsuit to request a rapid rejection by the courts.
A court can also decide to make the plaintiff bear the costs of the proceedings, particularly the legal fees of the person facing the lawsuit.
The European Commission first proposed the draft directive in April 2022 to combat these abusive procedures, expressing concern about their increasing use.
The commission also recommended that European Union countries should not recognise or enforce SLAPP cases brought against them in non-EU countries, such as Britain.
Rich plaintiffs flock to London -- dubbed the world's "libel capital" -- to bring lucrative cases under British law, which places the burden of proof on journalists.
The agreement will still need to be formally approved by the European Parliament.
Related Topics
Recent Stories
Currency Rate In Pakistan - Dollar, Euro, Pound, Riyal Rates On 28 April 2024
Today Gold Rate in Pakistan 28 April 2024
Fresh wave of rainfall in AJK continues for the second consecutive day
Babar, bowlers help Pakistan level series 2-2 against New Zealand
Attack in restive Chilean province leaves three police officers dead
PM, Saudi Royal court advisor discuss ways to boost economic ties
England clinch third successive Women's Six Nations Grand Slam
DC Bahawalnagar leads fight for fair bread prices
Sheffield Utd relegated from Premier League
02 proclaimed offenders arrested by Wah Police
Pakistan level T20I series with nine-run victory over New Zealand
Minister meets Chinese Consul General, discusses bilateral cooperation, Chinese ..
More Stories From World
-
Football: French Ligue 1 table
2 hours ago -
Inter continue Serie A title party as Bologna slip in Champions League bid
2 hours ago -
Paris Saint-Germain win Ligue 1 title after Monaco defeat
3 hours ago -
Man City see off Forest to close on Premier League leaders Arsenal
3 hours ago -
Italian PM Meloni says will stand in EU elections
4 hours ago -
Masood Khan hails Pakistani-American physicians role in upgrading Pakistan's healthcare system; also ..
4 hours ago
-
Celtic down Dundee to stay on course for Scottish Premiership crown
4 hours ago -
Ireland will act to send asylum seekers back to UK: PM
4 hours ago -
Kainz keeps Cologne's hope alive with late equaliser at Mainz
4 hours ago -
Tennis: ATP/WTA Madrid Open results - 1st update
4 hours ago -
Inter continue Serie A title party as Bologna slip in Champions League bid
5 hours ago -
Masood Khan hails Pakistani-American physicians role in upgrading Pakistan's healthcare system; also ..
5 hours ago