Court Observation Recruitment | In the Wake of the Wave of Reports Against RISU Non-Consensual Sexual Imagery Groups...

Those concerned with the issue of non-consensual sexual imagery likely remember that in June 2023, the incident involving the dissemination of such images on Facebook groups named RISU erupted, triggering a wave of reports and activism. Half a year later, through public mobilization, these groups no longer host the dissemination of non-consensual sexual imagery.

However, amidst this wave of public discussion and mobilization, some individuals have found themselves entangled in lawsuits.

The JRF, alongside other gender advocacy groups, participated in legislative amendments concerning non-consensual sexual imagery and is pleased to see the new laws passed in early January become a legal umbrella for victims. Yet, the protection of crime victims relies not only on robust laws but also on public support for victims and the deterrence of the dissemination of non-consensual sexual imagery. We continue to monitor the legal proceedings arising from the aftermath of this mobilization!

Chronology of Events

• In May, the Taiwan Digital Power Women Alliance first initiated a reporting campaign against RISU. Subsequently, Wang Ying-ta also responded to this action and began reporting the groups. However, as the number of reports accumulated, Wang Ying-ta discovered that the administrators of the RISU groups overlapped with those of the Baoliao Commune (爆料公社), and some administrators were even involved in both groups simultaneously, known as "Bao-series administrators."
• June 3, 2023: Wang Ying-ta posted: "I just searched for and reported the Risu groups available on Facebook one by one, and found that the administrator of several groups is actually the fan account named 'Bao-series Administrator.' Upon checking, I discovered it's actually Baoliao Commune! Could this internet company Baoliao Commune be directly operating or helping manage the shady business of Risu's leaked intimate videos? Utterly shameful!"
• Baoliao Commune filed a defamation lawsuit; the prosecutors' office held its first hearing and swiftly indicted him within a month.
• June 30, 2023: Received the civil complaint
• November 13, 2023: Criminal court mediation and preparatory proceedings
• November 27, 2023: Criminal court mediation
• November 28, 2023: Civil court mediation

Court Observation Schedule

Currently, both civil and criminal proceedings for the lawsuit filed by Baoliao Commune against Wang Ying-ta are proceeding simultaneously. Among them, the criminal case will hold a hearing on January 8. The Judicial Reform Foundation and the Taiwan Digital Power Women Alliance will send representatives for court observation. Interested friends are welcome to join us at the court for observation! Following the session, volunteer attorney for this case, Attorney Li Ling-wei, will hold a discussion and exchange with everyone.

Q: What is Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP)?

"Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation" (SLAPP) refers to the practice of opposing or questioning methods that influence legal proceedings through public opinion, social pressure, or public feedback. Legally speaking, litigation should be established on the basis of law and evidence, and should not be swayed by social and public emotions. This means that court proceedings should be independent, objective, and based on principles prescribed by law, rather than being influenced in their judgment or legal rulings by external social pressure.

SLAPP arguments contend that courts should follow legal procedures and adjudicate cases based on legal standards and evidence, rather than being swayed by external perspectives or public opinion. Such a stance emphasizes the importance of the rule of law and warns against letting public sentiment or social pressure undermine the independence and impartiality of the judiciary.

Q: What Related Resources Are Available?

• Mirror Media / Netizens Catch RISU Group Administrators Simultaneously Serving as "Bao-series" Admins! Baoliao Commune Suddenly Suspends Use, Offers Explanation
• Quick Guide to Amendments on Non-Consensual Sexual Imagery

Contact Person

Advocacy Specialist Hsieh Chia-chen
jane@jrf.org.tw
04-23292372#11