The European SLAPP Contest is back! With SLAPP lawsuits still on the rise in Europe, we are as keen as ever to shine our spotlight on Europe’s most committed legal bullies.

Journalists, activists, academics, and other public watchdogs work tirelessly to expose crime, corruption, and misconduct that threaten the public good—their work is a cornerstone of our democracy. However, wealthy and influential politicians and business leaders continue to find new ways to intimidate and silence those who dare to hold them accountable. The huge personal and financial risk faced by SLAPP targets can not only prevent them from doing this important work but also acts as a warning to anyone else thinking of challenging abuses of power. Meanwhile, those who weaponise lawsuits to silence critics—SLAPP litigants—all too often operate with impunity. They rely on flimsy but damaging accusations, manipulate legal systems, and rarely face consequences for their actions. It is for this reason that CASE hosts our annual European SLAPP Contest. We so to recognise the determination of SLAPP enthusiasts and put them under the spotlight they truly deserve. Voting closes 00h00 CET (midnight) Sunday 6th April 2025. Cast your vote now! On April 8th, the winners across five categories will be announced at the prize-giving event. Think one of the nominees deserves extra recognition for their dedication to legal bullying? Vote for them in the People’s Choice Award.

SLAPPs Report 2024