Case Study - SLAPP in Spain

The case of Iñaki Rivera serves as an important example of a SLAPP case in Spain. This report explains the background and the summary of proceedings of this sensational case, which clearly shows not only the intent of the plaintiffs, but also the consequences of SLAPP litigation for the life of the victim and for freedom of expression in general.

The case covered by this study represents an example of abusive proceedings brought against a human rights defender on account of his engagement in public participation on a matter of public interest concerning the fundamental rights of people deprived of their liberty.

The analysis highlights that not only the court proceedings brought against Iñaki Rivera fully unfounded, In addition, they were clearly aimed at persuading professor Rivera and his team at OSPDH to desist from monitoring the human rights situation inside the penitentiary centers of Catalonia.

This document is also available in Spanish.