European Commission 27 April 2022, Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/758 of 27 April 2022 on protecting journalists and human rights defenders who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings (‘Strategic lawsuits against public participation’)

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The Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/758 aims to protect journalists and human rights defenders from manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings, commonly referred to as SLAPPs, which threaten public participation and democratic discourse. Key provisions include the establishment of safeguards within Member States' legal frameworks to ensure early dismissal of such claims, the imposition of penalties on abusive claimants, and the provision of remedies for victims. The recommendation emphasizes the necessity of fostering a supportive environment for public debate and the role of independent media in upholding democracy and fundamental rights.AI