In the period of 24-26 September 2025, six representatives of the national authorities and civil society from the Republic of Moldova participated in Training of Trainers (ToT) on Countering SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation - abusive legal actions aimed not at winning in court but at silencing critical voices, especially those of journalists and human rights defenders).

The three-day event, held in Strasbourg, brought together participants from the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Poland, providing them with knowledge and practical tools needed to organize SLAPP training sessions in their countries.

Participants explored the definition and indicators of SLAPPs, European instruments and standards, the documentation of cases and use of online resources, as well as procedural safeguards, remedies, and support measures for journalists and other public watchdogs. They also gained practical experience in designing and delivering sessions and to receive direct feedback from peers and experts.

The Training of Trainers builds on ongoing Council of Europe work to counter SLAPPs across the region, including Recommendation CM/Rec(2024)2 and reference materials such as the Guide to Council of Europe Standards Limiting the Use of Criminal Law to Restrict Freedom of Expression. 

By strengthening a network of trainers in the Republic of Moldova, participation in this training will contribute to promoting and applying European standards on freedom of expression at the national level, supporting safer working conditions for journalists and enhanced democratic resilience.

The participation of the representatives from the Republic of Moldova in the ToT program was supported by the Council of Europe Project “Advancing Media Freedom in the Republic of Moldova.”