Italian Journalist Fined for Mocking PM Giorgia Meloni's Height

Court rules social media posts by Giulia Cortese amounted to defamation and body shaming, raising concerns about freedom of expression in Italy.

Giulia Cortese ordered to pay €5,000 in damages and a suspended fine of €1,200.
The posts included derogatory comments about Meloni's height and a doctored image with Mussolini.
Cortese and critics argue the ruling reflects a crackdown on journalistic dissent.
Meloni's lawyer announced the damages will be donated to charity.
Italy's press freedom ranking has declined amid increasing lawsuits against journalists.