Dissent on Trial: Strategies to Counter Rising Criminalization of Activism

To counter the increasing criminalization of human rights defenders, activists, and journalists worldwide, Amnesty international, the African Policing Civilian Oversight Forum (APCOF), and Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM) will publish a briefing on November 27th, outlining legal and advocacy strategies to protect critical voices from discrimination, harassment, prosecution, and imprisonment.

The briefing, “Dissent on Trial: Strategies to Counter Rising Criminalization of Activism”– developed within the Campaign to Decriminalize Poverty,Status and Activism – documents the alarming global trend of punishing civil disobedience and peaceful activism. This is frequently enough done by misusing national security and organized crime laws, defamation laws, and employing Strategic Lawsuits against Public Participation (SLAPPs).

The briefing also provides concrete strategies to resist and counter criminalization at different stages of the legal process – before charges are pressed,during criminal proceedings,and at the sentencing stage.

Key Takeaways

• Growing Trend: ThereS a concerning global increase in the criminalization of peaceful activism and civil disobedience.
• Misused Laws: Governments are increasingly using national security, organized crime, and defamation laws to suppress dissent.
• SLAPPs: Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation are being used to silence critics.
• Strategic Intervention: The briefing offers actionable strategies for activists and defenders at every stage of legal proceedings – pre-charge, during trial, and sentencing.

FAQ

Q: What are SLAPPs?

A: SLAPPs, or Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation, are lawsuits filed against individuals or groups to intimidate and silence them from speaking out on matters of public interest. They are often meritless but designed to drain resources and discourage further activism.

Q: Who is this briefing for?

A: This briefing is intended for human rights defenders, activists, journalists, lawyers, and organizations working to protect freedom of expression and assembly.

Q: Where can I find the full briefing?

A: The full briefing will be available on the amnesty International website and the websites of APCOF and SUARAM on November 27th.

Publication Date: 2025/11/24 16:22:11