The example of the investigative portal KRIK (Crime and Corruption Reporting Network), which stood up to then-Minister Nenad Popović, has become one of the most striking lessons in how journalists can fight back against strategic judicial harassment and remain true to the public interest.
The story begins in 2017, when KRIK, in cooperation with dozens of editorial teams worldwide, published a series of articles produced as part of the global investigative project “Paradise Papers.” These reports revealed that Minister Popović’s name appeared among those connected with offshore companies — information of considerable public importance. Instead of responding to journalists’ questions or issuing a rebuttal through regular channels, Popović filed four separate lawsuits against the portal, its editor-in-chief, and its journalists, claiming damages of one million dinars for each article (Cenzolovka).
What makes this case paradigmatic for SLAPPs is the range of tactics employed: simultaneously filing multiple lawsuits with high compensation claims, which for the newsroom meant multiple costs for legal representation, attending hearings, and administrative burdens. Popović further complicated the proceedings by repeatedly failing to appear, citing official travel, filing requests for judges to be recused, and even proposing that the trials be suspended while he held ministerial office. These actions were covered in detail by other sources, including the SafeJournalists network and KRIK itself. Throughout all this, KRIK had no guarantee that the merits of the case would be decided quickly, despite the fact that media disputes are, by law, required to be handled urgently.
What proved decisive, however, was how the newsroom responded. Rather than yielding to pressure and perhaps offering an apology for the sake of “keeping the peace,” KRIK chose to make every detail of its investigation public, including the original documents it had obtained lawfully. Collaboration with experienced lawyers, the regular presence of journalists in court, and the constant provision of information to the public about every phase of the proceedings helped ensure that the Popović vs. KRIK case became a symbol of the fight for freedom of expression and the protection of journalistic integrity.
An important part of this story is that KRIK did not allow the withdrawal or termination of the lawsuits to pass quietly. When Popović, after more than a year of delays, attempted to withdraw from the dispute, the newsroom insisted that the court nevertheless issue a ruling, thereby sending a clear message about the abuse of rights. Although such proceedings are exhausting, the most important lesson this case offers to other journalists and human rights defenders is that one must not remain silent or conduct such disputes away from the public eye. Openness, solidarity with colleagues, and the persistent reliance on relevant laws and international standards are key to recognising and neutralising a SLAPP.
Today, this case stands as a reminder that truth and the public interest are not only media standards but also the strongest protection before the courts. KRIK’s decision not to abandon its principles demonstrates that journalists, regardless of political or financial pressure, must persevere in ensuring that citizens are informed about everything that is of public importance. To those now facing similar lawsuits, this example sends a clear message: if you have a well-documented story, strong legal support, and the courage to speak openly about every detail, then even the most powerful plaintiffs are left without weapons. Ultimately, the public interest is defended through perseverance, professionalism, and solidarity with everyone who believes that truth is not a crime.
This document was prepared within the framework of the Civil Society Development Hub of the Western Balkans project, financed by Sida, and implemented by the BCSDN.
The content of this document, the information and the views expressed in it do not represent the official position and opinion of Sida and BCSDN. The responsibility for the information and views expressed in this document rests entirely with the author.
