libel tourism

American  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of libel tourism

First recorded in 2005–10

Example Sentences

In 2013, Northern Ireland rejected a measure passed by the British Parliament to deter foreign plaintiffs from so-called libel tourism, making the Belfast courts uniquely welcoming to Mr. Tweed and his American and international clients.

From New York Times • May 22, 2018

But they haven't been following the way that – especially in American eyes – London has turned into the libel tourism capital of the world.

From The Guardian • Aug. 11, 2012

In the latest so-called libel tourism case under the United Kingdom's controversial laws, cardiologist Peter Wilmshurst has been hit with another defamation suit.

From Science Magazine • Mar. 25, 2011

Labeling the law a “laughing stock,” Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg vowed to publish a draft bill this spring, targeting libel tourism and the high costs of bringing suit.

From BusinessWeek • Feb. 22, 2011

The best-known libel tourism example is the case of New York City-based author Rachel Ehrenfeld, whose U.S.-published 2003 book Funding Evil: How Terrorism Is Financed—and How to Stop It, sold 23 copies in the U.K.

From Scientific American • Jan. 24, 2011