Bob Vylan Takes Legal Action Against RTÉ Over Defamation Claims

Bob Vylan, the punk-rap duo, has initiated defamation proceedings against RTÉ, the Irish national broadcaster, concerning its coverage of their performance at the Glastonbury Festival this past summer. The legal action focuses on a segment of their set where they led a chant stating, “death, death to the IDF,” referring to the Israel Defence Forces.

In their complaint, Bob Vylan asserts that RTÉ inaccurately labeled their chants as “antisemitic,” which they claim has harmed their reputation. The duo is seeking damages to address the alleged injury caused by this reporting. Represented by Phoenix Law, a Belfast-based legal firm known for its advocacy work, including previous representation of KNEECAP, they filed two sets of defamation proceedings at the High Court on October 10, 2023.

Legal Representation Responds to Allegations

Darragh Mackin, a solicitor at Phoenix Law, defended Bob Vylan’s right to express their views, stating, “Our clients are no strangers to utilising their freedom of expression to speak out against the genocide in Gaza.” He emphasized a critical distinction between political expression and antisemitism. Mackin elaborated, “There is a fundamental distinction between speaking critically about the role of the Israeli state forces and being antisemitic. The former is speech within the confines of political expression, whereas the latter is a form of hatred directed towards Jewish people.”

The firm claims that RTÉ has not adequately addressed the harm caused by its statements, despite requests for a retraction and an apology. Mackin stated, “At no stage have our clients ever engaged in conduct that is remotely antisemitic and to that end, have had no option but to seek the formal correction of same via the remedies available within this litigation.” The legal team maintains that the chant, while politically charged, does not constitute antisemitism.

Recent Performances and Ongoing Controversy

Bob Vylan recently performed at Dublin’s Vicar Street, where they reiterated their controversial chant. Their ongoing legal battle with RTÉ highlights the tensions surrounding freedom of expression in the context of political discourse, particularly regarding sensitive issues such as the Israel-Palestine conflict.

As of now, RTÉ has not publicly commented on the legal proceedings or the allegations made by Bob Vylan. The outcome of this case may set a significant precedent regarding the intersection of artistic expression and media representation in politically charged environments.