Vice President of the European Commission Vera Jourova said that the criminalization of defamation could have a negative impact on censorship and the freedom of expression in the Member States and candidate states.
Exit asked Jourova whether she was in favor of the decriminalization of defamation in the Member States and candidate countries. She said:
“In my view, it’s something that should be considered by states…it’s my opinion that tools provided by civil or administrative law should be used in these cases.”
Linda Ravo from the Coalition Against SLAPP said that the call to decriminalize defamation is one that is echoed by the Council of Europe.
“Provisions criminalizing defamation have such a serious chilling effect on freedom of expression, as well as being weaponized through SLAPPs.”
The Coalition has put forward a model directive to counter the threat of SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) which are often used against journalists. It will also include provisions for protecting citizens and the media against criminal defamation.
In Albania, SLAPP and criminal defamation suits are often used by politicians and businesses against journalists and activists. Instead of decriminalising defamation, the government is seeking to increase penalties and fines, and to introduce other laws.
