Concept Summary  

Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) are a growing threat to freedom of expression and access to justice in the Asia-Pacific region. SLAPPs are often used by powerful actors to silence critics, intimidate activists, and discourage public participation in matters of public interest.

  

This session will explore the challenges posed by SLAPPs to access to justice and examine innovative legal and policy responses to protect public participation and freedom of expression. Participants will discuss the impact of SLAPPs on vulnerable groups, the role of the judiciary in identifying and dismissing such cases, and strategies for empowering civil society to resist these tactics. 

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Objectives 

• Raise awareness about the nature and impact of SLAPPs on individuals, civil society organizations, and the broader democratic space. 

• Identify key challenges faced by individuals and organizations in accessing justice when targeted by SLAPPs. 

• Discuss strategies to strengthen legal frameworks, enhance support mechanisms, and promote international cooperation to combat SLAPPs. 

• Foster dialogue among stakeholders on best practices and innovative approaches to protect freedom of expression and ensure access to justice in the context of SLAPPs. 

 

Questions 

• How do SLAPPs undermine access to justice and freedom of expression in the Asia-Pacific region? 

• What are the key challenges faced by individuals and organizations in accessing justice when targeted by SLAPPs? 

• What legal and policy measures have been effective in countering SLAPPs in different jurisdictions within the region and globally? 

• How can the judiciary be better equipped to identify and dismiss SLAPPs at an early stage? 

• What support mechanisms can be established to assist individuals and organizations targeted by SLAPPs? 

• What are the emerging trends in SLAPPs, such as the use of digital technologies or cross-border litigation, and how can these be addressed? 

• How can international cooperation be strengthened to combat SLAPPs and protect fundamental rights? 

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Format/Methodology 

The session will consist of a panel discussion followed by an interactive Q&A session. The panelists will include experts on SLAPPs, judges, representatives from civil society organizations, legal practitioners, and policymakers. The panelists will present their perspectives on the guiding questions, followed by a moderated discussion and Q&A with the audience. 

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Expected Outcome

• Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the impact of SLAPPs on access to justice and freedom of expression. 

• Participants will be able to identify key challenges and opportunities in addressing SLAPPs. 

• Participants will be equipped with knowledge of strategies and tools to combat SLAPPs and protect fundamental rights. 

• The session will foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders committed to ensuring access to justice for all. 

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About the People-Centered Justice Conference  

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangkok Regional Hub, the Thailand Institute of Justice (TIJ), the United Nations Environment Programme  (UNEP) Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, and UN Women Asia and the Pacific, in collaboration with the World Justice Project, the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), and the Court of Justice of Thailand, will host the conference “Achieving Just Societies: Inclusive Justice Pathways for People and Planet in Asia and the Pacific” This event is scheduled to take place in Bangkok from November 11-13, 2024. 
 
The conference will serve as a dynamic platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, address challenges, and explore innovative, data-driven, and evidence-based approaches to enhancing equal and inclusive access to justice for all through people-centered methods, including in crisis-affected settings. In line with a human rights-based approach and the 'leave no one behind' principles, the event aims to foster partnerships and promote robust access to justice frameworks that better prioritize human rights, as well as the justice needs and emerging priorities of individuals and communities across the Asia and Pacific region. 

 
Ultimately, the conference aspires to reinforce a collective regional commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring equal and inclusive access to justice, and protecting human rights, all of which are foundational to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in Agenda 2030.