29 June 2003

:: NEWS ::

Are Bulgarian journalists protected against accusations of libel and insult

Analysis of the results of the 2nd BHC survey of insult and libel lawsuits

2002 news

More infromation about the BHC project:

Freedom of expession

In February and March of 2003 the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee conducted a second survey of the insult and libel cases that have been brought against journalists, editors, and publishers. This survey is one of the BHC’s activities under the auspices of a year-long international project entitled “Decriminalization of Insult and Libel.” The project is financed by the European Union’s Stability Pact.

This study is the continuation of a previous investigation into the insult and libel cases that were brought against journalists during 2001. Fortunately, therefore, this report is able to make comparisons between the data from the two studies.

The survey was carried out by a network of 22 researchers who are professional journalists. Each of them was in charge of one region from the territory of the country. Information regarding the insult and libel cases was obtained from local editorial offices and courts. A questionnaire was filled in for each case.

To read the survey "Are Bulgarian Journalists Protected Against Accusations of Libel and Insult", click here.

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