Global Freedom of Expression Prize Winners 2024
AWARDS CEREMONY
PRIZE WINNERS 2024
Excellence in Legal Services
Human Rights and Indigenous Peoples Clinic at Suffolk University Law School, Suffolk University and the Association of Maya Lawyers and Notaries in Guatemala for their exceptional advocacy in the case of Maya Kaqchikel Indigenous Peoples of Sumpango et al. v. Guatemala before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (6 October 2021).
From left to right, Amy Van-Zyl Chavarro, Adriana Sunun Pablo and Nicole Friederichs. Photo Credit: Juan Manuel Ospina Sánchez / CGFoE
The Human Rights and Indigenous Peoples Clinic at Suffolk University Law School at Suffolk University, Boston, MA, USA, together with the Association of Maya Lawyers and Notaries in Guatemala, have been recognized for their exemplary legal advocacy in the case of Maya Kaqchikel Indigenous Peoples of Sumpango et al. v. Guatemala. Their relentless representation before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights culminated in a seminal ruling that addressed discriminatory regulations governing radio frequency allocations in Guatemala. Their efforts underscored the unique adversities faced by indigenous communities and championed the rights to freedom of expression and cultural integrity, thereby advancing international standards of freedom of expression.
Their continued commitment to enforcing the reparations mandated by the Court’s judgment further exemplifies their dedication to justice and human rights. Their collective expertise and steadfast advocacy have been pivotal in shaping legal precedents that uphold the rights and dignity of indigenous populations.
The award specifically acknowledges the contributions of key individuals:
- Nicole Friederichs, Lead Counsel and Director of the Human Rights and Indigenous Peoples Clinic at Suffolk University Law School.
- Amy Van-Zyl Chavarro, Of-Counsel at the Human Rights and Indigenous Peoples Clinic at Suffolk University Law School.
- Cristian Otzin, Legal Advisor at the Association of Maya Lawyers and Notaries in Guatemala.
- Adriana Sunun Pablo, Legal Advisor at the Association of Maya Lawyers and Notaries in Guatemala.
Read the complete case analysis in the Global Freedom of Expression database linked here.
Significant Legal Ruling
High Court of South Africa (Johannesburg) for its ruling in Mazetti Management Services (Pty) Ltd and Another v AmaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism NPC and Others (3 July 2023)
High Court in Johannesburg, South Africa. Photo Credits: Barsov/Wikipedia.
In a landmark decision, the High Court of South Africa (Johannesburg) in the case of Mazetti Management Services (Pty) Ltd and Another v AmaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism NPC and Others, established a significant precedent by ruling that investigative journalists receiving information from anonymous sources cannot be deemed accomplices in criminal activities, nor are they obliged to expose their sources or refrain from publishing stories based on the leaked information. The decision affirms the crucial role of investigative journalism in exposing corruption and emphasizes the necessity of source protection as an essential tool that allows investigations on matters of public interest that benefit society.
The judgment serves as an important legal safeguard in the ongoing battle against Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), reinforcing the positive societal contributions of investigative journalism and its essential function in maintaining a transparent and accountable democracy, and underscoring the harmful asymmetries between well-resourced entities attacking vulnerable speakers.
Considering the global rise of SLAPPs, this monumental decision establishes a valuable precedent within its jurisdiction and at a regional level, by ordering the imposition of punitive costs for an abuse of process and stressing the positive social role of investigative journalism (and its methods). This resolution could be instrumental in de-incentivizing this harmful practice and laying out a positive framework protective of press freedom.
Read the complete case analysis in the Global Freedom of Expression database linked here.