Our member organization from Serbia, Civic Initiatives, is launching the first SLAPP competition for the Western Balkans, starting with a social media campaign and concluding with an award ceremony in Belgrade on November 28. BCSDN contributes through participation in the Jury and as a panel speaker. The competition aims to highlight the chilling effects of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) on freedom of expression, civic activism, and democracy in the region. It seeks to shame those who use these lawsuits to silence individuals and organizations working for the public good. The event is organized in partnership with the European Fund for the Balkans, following the model of the European SLAPP competition. Prizes will be awarded in three categories: Environmental Harm, Obstructing Transparency, and Audience Choice. The competition will raise awareness about the abuse of laws to suppress public interest and promote freedom of expression across the region. Read more here.
Source: Civic Initiatives