Court dismisses a defamation case against Latvian Television for a broadcast on alleged violence in a pre-school educational institution

The Riga Regional Court’s judgment has come into force, dismissing in full SIA Paelika’s claim against Latvian Television (LTV) and an individual for defamation, demanding the withdrawal of statements made in stories and on social networks, as well as compensation for harm to reputation and damages.

The Supreme Court has refused to initiate cassation proceedings and the 2023 judgment of the Riga Regional Court has entered into force.

The dispute related to stories broadcasted on the LTV7 television channel, as well as posts on Facebook, in which the interviewee talked about her personal observations of the disciplinary methods of a teacher used in a pre-school group, which did not seem acceptable to the interviewee.

The Court, having assessed the case, concluded that the statements represented a subjective view and reflection of the person’s own experience, which did not constitute the defamation. In its judgment, the Court emphasised that every person has the right to publicly share his or her experiences and opinions, even if not accompanied by additional evidence such as video or audio recordings. According to the Court, such opinions are protected under freedom of expression.

LTV was represented in the proceedings by COBALT Senior Associate Maija Tipaine.