Preventive media blockade in Switzerland: the trivialization of attacks on press freedom

Press freedom in Switzerland faces a growing threat from provisional court orders and strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), Denis Masmejan, secretary general of Reporters Without Borders' Swiss section, warns. He argues that these measures, often underestimated, necessitate a strong reaction.

Masmejan points to a recent case involving the online media outlet Heidi.news. Geneva civil courts prohibited the publication of names of individuals and entities who lent money to the M3 group. This group, led by businessman Abdallah Chatila, aimed to acquire the Swiss subsidiary of the Russian Sberbank, which is under sanctions. The legal offensive, involving multiple lawsuits, proved so costly for Heidi.news that its lawyer alerted Reporters Without Borders.

These legal actions, disguised as protecting anonymity or other rights, effectively muzzle the press. The increasing frequency and financial burden of such cases risk chilling investigative journalism and limiting public access to information. Reporters Without Borders emphasizes the need for vigilance and action to counter this trend and safeguard the fundamental right to a free press in Switzerland.