Kramnik Loses Defamation Suit Against New in Chess — "He must tolerate strong criticism..."

Lawyer

Representative of New in Chess

“The court found that the article is not unlawful and dismissed all of Kramnik’s claims.

According to the court, the term ‘cyberbullying’ is not used lightly in the article, but is explained and substantiated based on the circumstances and statements presented. The court also finds the FIDE decision relevant.”

Dutch court

Legal institution

“It is also relevant that Kramnik, as a public figure with a very wide reach within the chess community, is also an active participant in the public debate on topics he considers to be abuses, such as cheating using electronic aids.

It is plausible that, due to his status within the chess community and the way in which he himself actively and provocatively participates in public debate, Kramnik has a significant impact within this community.

Consequently, Kramnik must, in turn, tolerate strong criticism and other statements concerning him, even if they do not serve his honor and good name.

This also applies to statements that cast doubt on his mental well-being. Kramnik publicly makes accusations of cheating and insinuates criminal conspiracy, ‘chess mafia’.

The fact that this leads to criticism and comments about his mental health within the chess community, which are subsequently addressed in the contested article, is permissible within the context of a ‘heated’ debate on a matter of public interest.”