With an overwhelming majority, the European Parliament has passed the EU Anti-SLAPP Directive, giving member states until 2026 to set minimum standards for the protection of media, public watchdogs, and unions from frivolous lawsuits.

SLAPPs or “strategic lawsuit against public participation” are legal actions typically brought by corporations or wealthy individuals with the intention of harassing, intimidating, and financially or psychologically exhausting opponents via improper use of the legal system.