Joint Programme

Horizontal Facility

Key European standards and practical aspects related to freedom of expression, protection of reputation and abusive litigation (SLAPPs) were addressed during a training with lawyers in Pristina.

Participants exchanged on core principles of freedom of expression, including relevant international standards and the case-law of the European Court of Human Rights. Discussions highlighted the role of media and civil society as public watchdogs, as well as current challenges identified through the Council of Europe Platform for the Protection of Journalism and Safety of Journalists.

Particular attention was given to the relationship between freedom of expression and the protection of reputation. Through interactive exchanges and case-based discussions, participants explored how to balance these rights in line with European standards.

A practical exercise, structured as a mock trial, enabled participants to apply the concepts discussed and reflect on their relevance in legal practice. This was followed by a dedicated session on SLAPPs, where participants examined key definitions, risks for media freedom, and existing European responses to counter abusive litigation.

This activity was organised within the framework of the action “Protecting Freedom of Expression and of the Media (PROFREX)”, part of the European Union and Council of Europe joint programme "Horizontal Facility III" and implemented by the Division for Cooperation on Freedom of Expression in close co-operation with the Kosovo Bar Association.