Robert Szustkowski, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, has sued the publishing house Ringier Axel Springer Polska (RASP) for PLN 54 million. He claims that RASP has failed to comply with the provisions of the 2020 settlement, which was supposed to eliminate the effects of violations of his personal rights.
History of the dispute
The history of the dispute dates back to 2017, when RASP media published articles suggesting that Szustkowski had ties to Russia, which negatively affected his personal and professional life. These articles contained unverified information and suggestions that Szustkowski was an agent of influence. This resulted in social ostracism, loss of investment, and a threat to the safety of his family.
2022: Conclusion of the settlement
In 2020, the parties concluded a settlement, obliging RASP to remove all harmful publications and prevent further violations. RASP was also supposed to apologize and donate a specified amount to charity. Despite the settlement, Szustkowski claims that the articles are still available and that the publisher did not take sufficient action to protect him from further damages.
Record lawsuit
The lawsuit for PLN 54 million, if upheld, could become the highest compensation in Polish history for infringement of personal rights. Similar cases have previously ended with lower amounts, but the social context and scale of the infringement in this case are unique.
Media responsibility for the reliability of content
Szustkowski’s case shows how much responsibility the media bears for the reliability of the content they publish. Despite reaching a settlement, RASP did not avoid escalating the problem, which led to a claim for a record amount.
Source: https://manager24.pl/ringier-axel-springer-polska-w-obliczu-pozwu-o-54-mln-zl-odpowiedzialnosc-mediow-a-naruszenie-dobr-osobistych/