What is slapp?

SLAPP stands for Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation. It's a type of lawsuit primarily aimed at silencing or intimidating critics by burdening them with the cost of a legal defense until they abandon their criticism or opposition.

SLAPPs are often filed by corporations, developers, or individuals with considerable financial resources against activists, journalists, community groups, or ordinary citizens who speak out on matters of public interest. The actual merits of the lawsuit are often secondary; the goal is to discourage future dissent.

Key characteristics of a SLAPP include:

• Target: Individuals or groups engaging in protected speech or actions.
• Motivation: To silence criticism, not to genuinely seek legal redress.
• Outcome: Primarily intended to harass, intimidate, and drain resources.

Because SLAPPs can stifle free speech and public participation, many jurisdictions have enacted anti-SLAPP laws ( https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Anti-SLAPP%20Laws ) to protect individuals from frivolous lawsuits intended to silence them. These laws provide a mechanism for early dismissal of SLAPPs and may include provisions for recovering attorney's fees and other damages. The effectiveness of these laws varies depending on the jurisdiction.

The impact of a SLAPP can be significant, including financial strain, emotional distress, and a chilling effect on public discourse. They undermine the ability of citizens to participate in public debates and hold powerful interests accountable.