Ringier Axel Springer Polska (RASP), a well-known media group that owns titles such as Newsweek Polska, Onet and Fakt, is facing a lawsuit for over PLN 54 million in damages. Entrepreneur Robert Szustkowski accuses RASP of failing to honor the terms of a 2020 settlement that was supposed to end a dispute over defamatory articles published between 2016 and 2018.
Background
Articles published in RASP media suggested Szustkowski’s links to Russia. These unfounded accusations seriously damaged his reputation. Despite the court’s verdict and the settlement, RASP failed to remove all the harmful content, prompting Szustkowski to file a lawsuit in December 2024.
Reputational implications
The media campaign portraying Szustkowski as a Russian agent of influence took place at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions due to the war in Ukraine. These accusations not only damaged his standing in Poland, but also had real consequences, including the withdrawal of investments from the country, the closure of his charitable foundation and his exclusion from social circles.
The lawsuit and its significance
The case against RASP, filed by attorney Elżbieta Kosińska-Kozak of Dubois & Partners, is one of the largest personal rights claims in the history of Polish law. Szustkowski seeks compensation for damages to his reputation, family and professional activity.
Media liability
The lawsuit highlights the importance of media liability for published content. If the court rules in Szustkowski’s favor, it could have far-reaching consequences for the Polish media landscape, setting a precedent for the liability of publishers for unfounded accusations.
Source: https://businessinthenews.co.uk/2025/01/03/ringier-axel-springer-polska-faces-major-lawsuit-over-alleged-contract-breach-and-personal-rights-violation/