libel tourism

noun

1. the act of suing a writer for alleged defamation in a foreign jurisdiction where there are weak libel laws.

Word History and Origins

Origin of libel tourism¹

First recorded in 2005–10

Example Sentences

Libel law has traditionally been more favorable to plaintiffs there, even leading to “libel tourism,” where plaintiffs sue in British courts to advantage their cause.

From Washington Post

In that country, libel law has traditionally been more favorable to plaintiffs, even leading to “libel tourism.”

From Washington Post

Critics have accused Russian oligarchs of “libel tourism,” or taking advantage of Britain’s relatively strict speech and publication laws, to silence unfriendly reporting.

From Washington Post

Jeff: Interestingly, Congress also endorsed the global protection of 230 and First Amendment values when it passed the “libel tourism law” about a decade ago.

From Slate

Some deride the legal maneuvers as “libel tourism” and see a growing trend not just in Virginia but in other states that similarly lack safeguards.

From Washington Post