In an era where environmental challenges are intensifying, the interconnection  of human rights and environmental protection has become a pressing global concern. To address these critical issues, the Council of Europe hosted an event that explored the impact of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) while fostering broader discussions on human rights and the environment.

The event brought together 43 representatives from different stakeholders, including judges, lawyers, journalists, representatives of civil society organisations and national human rights institutions to enhance their understanding of the critical nexus between human rights and environmental protection. A key focus was on SLAPPs and their impact on the broader human right to a healthy environment.

Discussions delved into several thematic areas, including the European Court of Human Rights evolving  environment-related case law, strategies to empower environmental defenders against SLAPPs, and the role of green journalism in fostering environmental accountability. In addition, comparative practices from other jurisdictions were also presented, providing valuable insights into effective approaches and lessons learned in addressing similar challenges.

This activity reflects the Council of Europe's commitment to promoting democratic participation, freedom of expression, and environmental protection. It was jointly organised under the projects “Human Rights and Sustainable Environment in South-East Europe” “Support to the Constitutional Court in Applying and Disseminating European Human Rights Standards” and “Protecting Freedom of Expression and of the Media – PROFREX”. PROFREX is part of the joint European Union and the Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye” and is implemented by the Council of Europe Division for Co-operation on Freedom of Expression.