
Norway Defamation Laws: Civil-Only Since 2015 & Defences
Norway decriminalized defamation in 2015. It is now a civil-only matter under the Damages Compensation Act section 3-6a; there is no general defamation crime.
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Norway decriminalized defamation in 2015. It is now a civil-only matter under the Damages Compensation Act section 3-6a; there is no general defamation crime.

In Luxembourg defamation is both criminal and civil. The Criminal Code punishes calomnie and diffamation; the 2004 media law gives a public defence.

In Latvia defamation is both criminal and civil. Criminal Law section 157 punishes it, and Civil Law section 2352.a allows retraction and damages.

Defamation in Indonesia is both civil and criminal. The 2023 Criminal Code (effective Jan 2026) and the ITE Law govern offline and online defamation.

In Hungary defamation is both criminal and civil. Criminal Code sections 226 to 229 punish defamation and insult; the Civil Code allows a grievance award.

Defamation in Hong Kong is mainly a civil matter under the Defamation Ordinance (Cap. 21). Criminal libel exists but is rarely prosecuted.

In Greece defamation is both criminal and civil. Law 5090/2024 repealed ordinary defamation; insult and slanderous defamation remain crimes.

In Finland defamation is both criminal and civil. Criminal Code Chapter 24 punishes defamation and aggravated defamation; the Tort Liability Act allows damages.

In Estonia ordinary defamation is a civil matter under the Law of Obligations Act, not a crime; only narrow criminal provisions remain.

In Ecuador, calumnia (falsely accusing of a crime) is criminal under COIP art 182; injuria was decriminalized in 2014. Civil damages also apply.

In Denmark defamation is both criminal and civil. Penal Code sections 267 to 270 punish defamation; the Liability for Damages Act allows tort compensation.

In the Czech Republic defamation is both criminal and civil. Criminal Code section 184 punishes defamation; the Civil Code protects honour and reputation.