Globalism, Free Speech and the Internet.(EDITORIALS)

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Byline: THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Tuesday's Australian High Court ruling that New Jersey-based publisher Dow Jones can be sued for libel under Australian law because of an article available on the Internet is a grave setback for freedom of the press and illustrates anew the dangers of globalism. Siding with mining magnate Joseph Gutnick, the Australian High Court held that, although the offending article was published halfway around the world, because it could be downloaded in Melbourne, Mr. Gutnick's home town, he had grounds to sue in Australia. The ruling subjects journalists and publishers to the peril that they can be sued anywhere in the world where libel cases are …