anti-slapp — The Republic of Cyprus has introduced an anti-SLAPP bill aimed at protecting journalists, activists, and whistleblowers from predatory lawsuits. Officially named the Protection of Persons Engaging in Public Participation from Manifestly Unfounded Lawsuits or Abusive Court Proceedings Law of 2025, this legislation is a significant step towards ensuring that those who speak out on matters of public interest are not silenced through the misuse of the legal system.
Anti-slapp: Strengthening Legal Protections
This new bill aligns Cyprus with the EU Directive 2024/1069, which focuses on curbing Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs). The legislation aims to prevent wealthy or powerful entities from employing the courts as a tool for intimidation against individuals engaging in public discourse. It establishes a robust legal framework that empowers defendants to seek early dismissal of lawsuits that are clearly unfounded.
Provisions for Early Dismissal
Under this proposed law, individuals targeted for their involvement in issues such as corruption, environmental advocacy, or public health can apply for early dismissal of lawsuits deemed
