France's top court strikes down old defamation law, boosting press freedom

France's highest court has struck down an outdated law that previously allowed newspapers to be sued for defamation indefinitely. The Constitutional Council declared a provision of an 1881 law unconstitutional, a move hailed as a historic victory for press freedom.

The challenge was brought by the French investigative outlets Libération and Mediapart. They argued that the old law, which permitted defamation lawsuits to be filed without a time limit, hindered their ability to conduct and publish investigations. The court's decision effectively removes this perpetual threat of legal action, reinforcing the right of journalists to inform the public.

This ruling is expected to bolster investigative journalism in France, allowing news organizations to pursue critical stories with greater confidence. It underscores the importance of a free press in a democratic society and protects citizens' access to information.

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a salutary decision that strengthens the right of the press and the right of citizens to be informed.