Austria advances anti-SLAPP legislation as René Benko receives additional prison sentence

Austria has presented draft legislation implementing the European Union's anti-SLAPP directive to protect journalists and activists against abusive intimidation lawsuits. The proposed law permits courts to swiftly dismiss strategic lawsuits against public participation, award financial compensation to targets, and penalize abusive claimants. While non-governmental organizations commended the draft, the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber expressed criticism over its potential impact on businesses.

In separate judicial developments, the Innsbruck Regional Court sentenced Signa founder René Benko to two additional years in prison for deception involving a five-million-euro guarantee. The decision adds to legal proceedings following the collapse of his real estate group. Additionally, former Austrian Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik warned European leaders against complacency regarding global autocratic movements, while foreign policy analysts questioned Western assessments of Russia.

Sources: Der Standard, FAZ, Profil, Die Presse