Han Dong sued Global News and its journalists for defamation after they published a story alleging he advised a Chinese diplomat to delay the release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor ("Two Michaels"). Dong claimed the story damaged his reputation and political career. The Defendants filed a motion under Section 137.1 of the Courts of Justice Act (anti-SLAPP) to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing their reporting was a matter of public interest and protected by defenses of truth and responsible communication.

Key Findings:

• The court found Dong's defamation claim had substantial merit.
• It was "conceivable" that the Defendants' defenses of truth and responsible communication might not hold up in court.
• The public interest in allowing Dong's lawsuit to proceed outweighed the public interest in protecting the Defendants' expression.

Outcome:

• The Defendants' anti-SLAPP motion was dismissed, allowing the defamation case to move forward. Costs may be awarded against the Defendants.
• No monetary award was specified.