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Defamation and Related Actions Against Journalists
Defamation—including libel and slander—is often exploited to suppress free expression, particularly targeting journalists. Although modern human rights law aims to balance protecting reputation with ensuring free speech, overly punitive defamation laws can chill dissent and enable strategic lawsuits against critics. Defending defamation lawsuits often leads to SLAPPs, where plaintiffs use litigation to intimidate critics into silence.
Modules
Media Defence has created a series of modules that give an overview of how defamation is treated in domestic and international law.
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Sub-Saharan Africa
Trends in Censorship by Private Actors – sub-Saharan Africa
This module aims to: Introduction States’ obligations to uphold and respect rights, including digital rights, are a cornerstone of international law.(1) However, there is growing appreciation in international law and human rights…
Read moreNew
May 2025 -
Sub-Saharan Africa
Defamation – Sub-Saharan Africa
Introduction Defamation proceedings, subject to the intention with which they are launched, can either be a tool or a weapon. As a tool, it can enable legal redress on the basis of…
Read moreFebruary 2025
Apply for case support
We support journalists – including citizen journalists, bloggers, broadcasters, photojournalists, cartoonists or fact-checkers – and news outlets when they are confronted with legal action as a result of their reporting.
Media Defence’s Resources
Additional Materials
Check out Additional Materials for valuable resources from peer organisations and trusted bodies, selected to complement our content and offer a comprehensive perspective on the topic.