Environmental Rule of Law and Human Rights in Asia Pacific: Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) - Summary for Decision-Makers and Recommendations

This summary for decision-makers highlights the growing threat of strategic lawsuits against the public (SLAPPs) in the Asia-Pacific region. These unfounded lawsuits, often initiated by powerful state or corporate actors, aim to silence environmental human rights defenders through judicial harassment and intimidation. The report highlights how SLAPPs undermine freedom of expression, public participation, access to justice and the rule of lawin the environmental sector — key pillars of sustainable development and human rights. It outlines global and regional trends, identifies common SLAPP users and targets, and describes the negative impacts on individuals, civic space and environmental policy. Using case studies and legal frameworks, it also presents strategies and best practises to combat SLAPP, including legislative measures in the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia.