The European Union passes a law to protect journalists
On Thursday, November 30, the European Parliament and EU member states reached an agreement on a draft law that protects journalists and activists from legal cases brought by wealthy and influential individuals or companies.
Strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) are a part of heavy legal actions that are generally filed in courts with the aim of intimidating critics.
The proposed new laws allow an individual targeted by such complaints to request the court for a swift dismissal of the case. The court can also decide that the complainant, whether an individual or organization, should bear the legal costs, especially the legal expenses of the person facing the lawsuit.