A Spanish court has ruled that critics of Jehovah’s Witnesses can lawfully describe the group as a “destructive sect,” affirming that such characterisation falls within the bounds of free expression.
The decision by the Provincial Court of Madrid upheld a 2023 judgment in favour of the Spanish Association of Jehovah’s Witnesses Victims, which has publicly criticised the organisation.
In its ruling, the court held that referring to Jehovah’s Witnesses as a “destructive sect” does not amount to unlawful defamation, even if the description is offensive or damaging to the group’s reputation.
It added that claims suggesting membership of the organisation could harm health, endanger lives or create victims are also protected under freedom of expression.
The case stemmed from a lawsuit filed by six members of the religious group, who argued that the use of the term “victims” in the association’s name was defamatory and sought its dissolution.
A lawyer representing the association described the ruling as unprecedented, noting that it was the first time a court had expressly allowed a recognised religion to be labelled in such terms.
Founded in 1870 by Charles Taze Russell, Jehovah’s Witnesses is a United States-based Christian movement with about nine million followers worldwide, known for its evangelism and distinctive doctrinal positions.
The group has frequently initiated legal action against critics in various countries over alleged reputational harm.
The latest ruling, however, highlights the Spanish judiciary’s stance on balancing the right to reputation with freedom of speech.
The judgment is not final and may still be appealed before Spain’s Supreme Court.
(AFP)
