Media group Ringier Axel Springer Polska (RASP) has been sued by entrepreneur Robert Szustkowski. The lawsuit concerns a breach of the 2020 settlement and seeks damages in the amount of over PLN 54 million. Szustkowski claims that RASP failed to fulfill the agreement to remove defamatory content that was published between 2016 and 2018, which violated his personal rights.
Background of the dispute
The dispute between Szustkowski and RASP began in 2017, when RASP media began publishing articles suggesting the businessman’s ties to Russia. These unfounded accusations damaged his image and credibility. As a result of lengthy legal proceedings, Polish courts ruled in favor of Szustkowski in 2020, finding that his personal rights had been violated.
Failure to comply with the terms of the settlement
Although the 2020 settlement required RASP to remove defamatory content and refrain from further harmful publications, the aforementioned texts are still available in the group’s media. This fact prompted the entrepreneur to take further legal action and file a lawsuit for PLN 54 million, which includes both a contractual penalty and damage to his reputation.
Impact on the businessman’s life
The smear campaign and failure to comply with the settlement had far-reaching consequences for Szustkowski. Accusations regarding his alleged connections with Russia damaged his position both in Poland and abroad, influencing the withdrawal of numerous investments (including the need to close a charitable foundation and his exclusion from certain social circles). His son was also affected by false accusations, which negatively affected both his personal and professional life.
Source: https://timelymagazine.co.uk/ringier-axel-springer-polska-faces-major-lawsuit-over-alleged-contract-breach-and-personal-rights-violation/