Greenpeace wins Rabobank “Wanted” poster court case
Greenpeace does not have to stop a campaign featuring a photograph of Rabobank’s CEO with the words “Wanted,” Amsterdam judges ruled on Tuesday, citing freedom of speech.
Rabobank had taken the environmental group to court, seeking to halt the campaign, which includes posters, stickers, and a giant banner. The campaign aims to highlight Rabobank’s involvement in deforestation.
Rabobank argued that depicting CEO Stefaan Decraene in the style of a Wild West “wanted” poster unfairly portrayed him as a criminal and was “completely inappropriate,” broadcaster NOS reported. The bank claimed the posters not only damaged his reputation but also posed a potential risk to his personal safety.
But the court ruled that the posters did not cast Decraene as a criminal. “The mere suggestion that the poster might prompt others to take action against Decraene is not enough to prove the posters are unlawful,” the judge said.
As chairman, Decraene must accept that his image will be tied to the bank he leads and that he will be “held accountable for his actions in that role,” the court said.
Rabobank expressed disappointment with the ruling but has not yet decided whether to appeal.
In response, Greenpeace said Rabobank would have been better off using its time and resources to end deforestation. “Until that happens, we will continue to hold them accountable,” said campaign leader Meike Rijksen.
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