In 2025, the Estonian Association of Journalists, in cooperation with the Council of Europe, organised a series of activities aimed at strengthening awareness, expertise and dialogue on Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs).

On 12–13 June, journalists participated in a specialised training programme led by Council of Europe experts Flutura Kusari and Dominika Bychawska-Siniarska. The training explored the characteristics of SLAPPs, relevant case studies and available defence mechanisms, while also providing an opportunity to collect information on journalists’ experiences with abusive litigation in Estonia.

Building on this work, the Association organised an interactive round table bringing together journalists, judges from all levels of the judiciary, including the Supreme Court, and representatives of the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs.

Participants exchanged experiences regarding SLAPP cases from both journalistic and judicial perspectives and discussed ways to strengthen safeguards in Estonia’s planned anti-SLAPP legislation. The initiative contributed to raising awareness of SLAPPs and fostering dialogue among key stakeholders involved in protecting freedom of expression and access to justice.

More details: EAL > Avaleht  and Council of Europe and Supreme Court of Estonia hold groundbreaking anti-SLAPP Training for judges and journalists - Freedom of Expression