Solidarity with Adil Raja Against SLAPP Case

This branch notes:

That Adil Raja, a freelance investigative journalist and NUJ member, is facing a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) initiated by the Pakistani intelligence agency.
That the trial [for defamation] is scheduled to take place at the Royal Courts of Justice in London from 21 to 24 July 2025.

That this case represents a significant threat to press freedom and journalistic integrity, as SLAPPs are designed to intimidate and silence journalists through costly and vexatious legal action.

This branch believes:

That journalists must be free to carry out investigative work without fear of legal harassment or intimidation.

That solidarity with members facing such challenges is a core principle of the NUJ’s commitment to defending press freedom.

This branch resolves:

To express full support and solidarity with Adil Raja in his defence against this SLAPP case.
To circulate the press release provided by Adil Raja to all branch members to raise awareness of the case.

To encourage media coverage of the trial to highlight the implications for press freedom.
To support a solidarity campaign ahead of and during the trial, including promoting the case on social media and other platforms.

To invite Adil Raja to provide further information or attend a future meeting to discuss the case, subject to his availability and the branch’s schedule.

To urge the NUJ National Executive Council to monitor this case and advocate for stronger legal protections against SLAPPs in the UK.

Proposed: Adil Raja
http://www.londonfreelance.org/lfb/meetings.html#motions