The Republic of Cyprus is poised to introduce significant new legislation aimed at protecting individuals and organisations from vexatious legal actions, commonly known as SLAPPs. This comprehensive bill, meticulously aligned with European Union directives, seeks to prevent the misuse of courts for intimidation and silencing critics. It is designed to safeguard the essential work undertaken by journalists, activists, and whistleblowers.
This impending law, officially titled the "Protection of Persons Engaging in Public Participation from Manifestly Unfounded Lawsuits or Abusive Court Proceedings Law of 2025," demonstrates a proactive governmental stance against a concerning global trend. Influential entities have often initiated protracted and expensive legal battles, not for legitimate resolution, but to exhaust the resources and undermine the morale of those scrutinising their conduct. The new legal framework will create substantial obstacles for such predatory litigation.
A cornerstone of this legislation is the establishment of a robust mechanism for the early dismissal of lawsuits deemed "manifestly unfounded." This provision will empower judges to examine claims from their inception and reject those lacking a clear, legitimate basis. Furthermore, the bill introduces a crucial shift in the burden of proof. Plaintiffs will now be required to affirmatively demonstrate the validity of their claims, rather than defendants having to disprove them. This recalibration is vital for preventing judicial system abuse.
The law also grants the judiciary enhanced powers to penalise those who engage in abusive litigation. Courts will be authorised to order plaintiffs to cover the full legal expenses of a defendant, acting as a potent deterrent against frivolous lawsuits. In severe cases, judges may mandate financial guarantees from plaintiffs before proceedings commence. Crucially, the legislation permits defendants to pursue damages through counterclaims, offering a pathway for redress against malicious legal actions.
This legislative initiative explicitly extends its protective scope to purely domestic cases, acknowledging that SLAPPs pose a pervasive threat within Cyprus. The definition of "public interest" will be broadly interpreted to encompass a wide array of activities. This comprehensive scope is vital for ensuring that all individuals contributing to public discourse receive the full protection of the law. Cyprus is mandated to integrate these EU-driven provisions by May 7, 2026. The anticipated impact is profound: a stronger defence against the weaponisation of courts and a more vibrant public sphere.