Speaker details

Biography

Dario Milo, a partner at leading South African law firm Webber Wentzel, has extensive expertise which spans across media, communications, and information law, constitutional and administrative law, data protection, privacy, disinformation law, and corporate and tax litigation, alongside alternative dispute resolution. With an illustrious career, he has consistently championed the cause of free speech and media freedom, earning a reputation as a trusted advocate in the field. His legal prowess has been prominently showcased through his representation of various media outlets in a series of high-profile cases. Notably, he was the lead attorney in the defense against defamation allegations brought by former President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma, against the renowned cartoonist Zapiro. His dedication to upholding media freedom extends beyond individual cases, as he has been at the forefront of landmark Constitutional Court victories. He secured significant wins for organisations like the amaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism, ensuring transparency in surveillance laws and political donation disclosures. Additionally, his work on behalf of the Mail & Guardian, Primedia, Multichoice, and media organisations such as SANEF, Media Monitoring Africa and Campaign for Free Expression, has resulted in advancements in access to information and open justice. Dario's impressive track record further includes the successful judicial review of the Public Protector's Lifeboat report for a leading banking institution and a landmark triumph for a leading energy company against the South African Revenue Services, setting a precedent in the law relating to substance over form. His commitment to justice is underscored by his representation of Mrs. Graça Machel Mandela (widow of former President Nelson Mandela) in her complaint before the Health Professions Council of South Africa, where he defended the sanctity of doctor-patient confidentiality, illustrating his dedication to safeguarding individual rights. Beyond the courtroom, Dario's experience extends to a range of specialised tribunals and fora, including the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa, the Films and Publications Board, the Press Council, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa, the Complaints and Compliance Committee of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa and the Advertising Regulatory. He serves as a member of the International Bar Association's Media Law Committee, is a member of the high-level panel of legal experts on media freedom chaired by Lord David Neuberger and is an expert in freedom of expression and information for Columbia University. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.