On 2 July, BCSDN hosted a virtual event to launch the first regional report on SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) in the Western Balkans. Around 100 participants, including activists, journalists, and legal experts discussed the findings. The report and national SLAPPs examples, presented by BCSDN EO and members’ representatives revealed a rise in SLAPP cases targeting journalists and activists, used to silence dissent. It emphasized the need for a robust legal framework to address SLAPPs and called for public awareness and regional coalitions. During the discussion, participants shared experiences and stressed the importance of legal support, resource sharing, and collaborative advocacy to combat SLAPPs effectively. They also highlighted the necessity of awareness-raising and training within the judiciary to improve case handling. These points were also part of the report’s recommendations, underscoring CSOs critical role in addressing the issue comprehensively. The regional report on SLAPPs and the event presentation are available here.
Source: BCSDN