Strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) are legal actions designed to suppress free expression and public participation on matters of public interest. These lawsuits aim to intimidate or harass individuals or groups, often through prolonged legal proceedings that create a chilling effect on speech.
To address strategic lawsuits against public participation in Armenia, Human Rights House Yerevan organized the conference “SLAPPs: A Threat to Public Participation” on March 25, 2025.
In recent years, we have documented over three dozen SLAPP cases in Armenia, targeting human rights defenders, civil society organizations, environmental activists, and journalists. These lawsuits are primarily initiated by officials, as well as mining and construction companies, aiming to suppress criticism of possible corruption and harmful corporate practices. SLAPPs impose significant financial and psychological burdens on activists, organizations, and citizens, obstructing their work and deterring others from speaking out against human rights violations and environmental damage. In addition to legal pressure, some activists have also faced hate speech and smear campaigns on social media.
During the conference, we presented the report “Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation in Armenia” prepared by the Human Rights House Yerevan. Activists, human rights defenders, and journalists shared their experiences with SLAPPs targeting them or their organizations/initiatives, highlighting the impact of these lawsuits on fundamental human rights and restrictions on freedom of speech.
Within the framework of the conference, we also discussed international regulations on SLAPPs and their potential implementation in Armenia. One such regulation is the Council of Europe Recommendation CM/Rec (2024)2, adopted by the Committee of Ministers on April 5, 2024. This recommendation defines SLAPPs and their various forms, provides guidance on legislative safeguards, remedies, and transparency measures, and highlights the importance of supporting those targeted by such lawsuits. It underscores the need for awareness-raising, education, and training, as well as national and international cooperation in combating SLAPPs. Additionally, the recommendation stresses the importance of early dismissal of unfounded claims, compensation for legal expenses, and ensuring legal, financial, and psychological support for victims of SLAPPs.
At the end of the conference, we discussed the necessary steps to prevent and effectively combat SLAPPs, including:
- Initiating discussions on adopting anti-SLAPP legislation in Armenia;
- Organizing public awareness events on SLAPPs;
- Conducting targeted awareness-raising for judges and lawyers on SLAPPs.
For Human Rights House Yerevan, combating strategic lawsuits against public participation remains a key priority. We emphasize the need for a systematic and coordinated response to this issue and will continue to organize and facilitate discussions on SLAPPs in the future.
