How Do You Spell LINGENS V. AUSTRIA?

Pronunciation: [lˈɪnd͡ʒənz vˈiː ˈɒstɹiə] (IPA)

The spelling of the legal case "Lingens v. Austria" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, "Lingens," is pronounced /ˈlɪŋənz/ with the stress on the first syllable. The second word, "Austria," is pronounced /ˈɒstriə/ with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the word "Lingens" reflects its German origin and the spelling of "Austria" reflects its English origin. The case is significant for its role in establishing the importance of freedom of expression in European law.

LINGENS V. AUSTRIA Meaning and Definition

  1. Lingens v. Austria refers to a landmark legal case decided by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in 1986. The case involved the Austrian journalist, Hans Peter Neumann Lingens, who was charged with defamation under Austrian law after publishing an article critical of a politician.

    The ECHR held that Lingens' prosecution and conviction violated his right to freedom of expression guaranteed by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The court's decision emphasized the importance of this right in a democratic society and the role of journalists in providing information and contributing to public debate.

    In its reasoning, the court outlined several key principles. Firstly, it stated that freedom of expression extends not only to information or ideas that are favorably received, but also to those that offend, shock, or disturb. Secondly, it stressed that restrictions on this right must be narrowly interpreted and justified by overriding public interests. Finally, the court highlighted that freedom of expression applies not only to the content of statements but also to the means of communication, including the protection of journalists' sources.

    Lingens v. Austria set an important precedent in Europe, clarifying and strengthening legal protections for freedom of expression and the role of the media. It reaffirmed the fundamental importance of allowing critical discourse and the open exchange of ideas in democratic societies, providing a framework for future cases involving freedom of speech and journalism within the ECHR system.