Press freedom under attack. Understanding and countering SLAPPs for stronger journalism

n 2017, the murder of Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia—who at the time of the attack that cost her life was facing 47 abusive lawsuits—drew the attention of public opinion, civil society, and European policymakers to the scale of the SLAPP phenomenon in Europe. Awareness of its extent and its impact on freedom of expression and democratic structures persuaded the European Commission and the Council of Europe to adopt two Recommendations and a Directive aimed at countering the phenomenon, establishing minimum protection standards for journalists and activists who serve as public watchdog, safeguarding democracy. This workshop, co-organized by Osservatorio Balcani Caucaso Transeuropa and The Good Lobby Italia, aims to provide an overview of the progress made at both national and European levels, while addressing the ongoing challenges faced by media professionals—especially investigative journalists—and activists across Europe. The event is open to journalists as well as the wider public interested in understanding how legal intimidation threatens the rule of law in Italy and beyond. The training will combine lectures with interactive sessions, encouraging participants to reflect together on the crucial role different sectors of society can play in countering legal harassment and building networks of solidarity.