Repression by Legal Means: Governments' Anti-Fake News Lawfare.

The article discusses the increasing use of anti-fake news laws by governments to censor and criminalize critics, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. Journalists and activists who rely on online platforms are often targeted, leading to self-censorship and disengagement from advocacy. However, civil society actors have fought back through legal pushbacks and policy advocacy. The legislation has detrimental impacts on civil society, including financial burdens, legal proceedings, and physical and psychological intimidation. The article suggests strategies such as legal countermeasures and policy overhauls to prevent the abuse of these laws, and recommends strengthening data protection and regulating social media platforms. The EU is encouraged to set global standards and provide support to affected organizations. [Extracted from the article]