Daphne’s law: honouring the legacy of a fearless journalist in the fight for press freedom

Last updated on Tuesday, 16/07/2024

In investigative journalism, few names resonate as powerfully as that of Daphne Caruana Galizia. However, for those who are unaware of who she is, Daphne's Law is not only a legislative achievement but also a testament to the unbreakable power of a journalist whose life was brutally cut short in search of the truth.

Daphne Caruana Galizia was not merely a journalist; she was a force to be reckoned with, a relentless seeker of justice in the face of corruption and injustice. Born and raised in Malta, Caruana Galizia's journey into journalism began at a young age, fuelled by curiosity and an unyielding commitment to holding power to account.

Throughout her career spanning over three decades, Caruana Galizia fearlessly tackled some of the most pressing issues in Maltese society and beyond. From exposing government corruption to unearthing connections to organised crime, her investigative prowess knew no bounds. Despite facing numerous threats and acts of intimidation, including having her house set on fire and her family pets killed, Caruana Galizia remained undeterred, and steadfast in her pursuit of truth and justice.

On 16 October 2017, the world was shaken by the news of Caruana Galizia's untimely demise. Assassinated by a car bomb outside her home in Bidnija, Malta, her death sent shockwaves through the journalistic community and sparked widespread outrage. Yet, even in death, Caruana Galizia's legacy lived on, igniting a global movement to combat the very forces that sought to silence her.

Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) have long plagued journalists, activists, and public watchdogs, serving as a tool for powerful entities to silence critical voices. Daphne Caruana Galizia's relentless investigative journalism made her a prime target for such bitter lawsuits, with over 40 pending at the time of her brutal killing in 2017. Her pursuit of the truth, despite threats, intimidation, and violence, highlighted the critical need for legislative measures to protect press freedom and the rule of law.

The origins of Daphne's Law may be traced back to a group of campaigners, both in Malta and outside, who rallied around Caruana Galizia's memory. Inspired by her relentless commitment to truth, this group led efforts to enact strong anti-SLAPP laws in the European Union. The law, also known as Daphne's Law, respects Caruana Galizia's legacy and aims to avoid the heinous injustices she faced while pursuing journalistic integrity.

The European Parliament's approval of Daphne's Law represents a significant milestone in the fight against SLAPPs and the protection of press freedom. The directive establishes minimum standards to shield journalists, activists, and public watchdogs from baseless, costly, and time-consuming lawsuits. Key provisions include early dismissal of unfounded cases, broad definitions of cross-border litigation, and compensatory damages for defendants. By deterring frivolous lawsuits and holding perpetrators accountable, Daphne's Law empowers individuals and organisations working on matters of public interest.

In an exclusive interview with Elizabeth from the Shift News (an investigative journalism news portal based in Malta), she emphasised that “In the wake of Daphne Caruana Galizia's tragic death, the journalism community experienced a profound shift”."Her fearless commitment to uncovering the truth in the face of adversity served as a rallying cry for journalists worldwide. Her work inspired a new generation of investigative journalists to persevere despite the risks" Elizabeth added.

Elizabeth stressed the emergence of cross-border collaborative journalism as a response to the challenges faced by investigative journalists. "We've seen a significant rise in cross-border collaborations, with initiatives like Forbidden Stories and Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project playing a crucial role in supporting investigative journalists and amplifying their voices. These collaborations not only enhance the scope and impact of investigative reporting but also provide a network of support for journalists facing threats and intimidation."

Beyond legislative reforms, Daphne's Law underscores the importance of citizen engagement in safeguarding democratic values. Caruana Galizia's family, alongside anti-mafia activists and civil society organisations, advocate for collective action against impunity and organised crime. Their unwavering commitment to justice serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Daphne Caruana Galizia and the indispensable role of press freedom in a democratic society.

"Daphne's Law represents a significant milestone in the ongoing battle to safeguard press freedom and protect journalists from abusive legal tactics" Elizabeth explained. "By establishing robust anti-SLAPP measures, the directive aims to deter frivolous lawsuits designed to intimidate and silence journalists" she added.

As Europe embraces Daphne's Law, it reaffirms its commitment to press freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. By addressing the scourge of SLAPPs and protecting those who courageously speak the truth to power, the European Union honours the memory of Daphne Caruana Galizia and strengthens its resolve to uphold fundamental rights and freedoms. As EU Member states move to implement Daphne's Law, they must remain vigilant in defending the principles of justice, transparency, and accountability that lie at the heart of a free and democratic society.

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Young Journalists in Europe - Meet the author

Emma Brownrigg
Hello! I'm Emma Brownrigg Fenech, an 18-year-old studying journalism from Malta. Raised by political discussions, I've forged a deep interest in societal change. Presently, I serve as the Vice-President of my college. In 2022, I made my parliamentary debut. I eagerly anticipate engaging in global dialogue. Journalism and politics aside I enjoy rock and metal music. My commitment remains steadfast—to utilise media as a catalyst for meaningful societal transformation.

This article reflects the views of the authors only. The European Commission and Eurodesk cannot be held responsible for it.