Media freedom and pluralism are central elements of a society based on the rule of law and to ensuring democratic accountability. Reforms are under way in Member States to align national laws with the new rules under the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). Many Member States are undertaking reforms to strengthen the independent functioning and financing of public service media and to improve fairness and transparency of state advertising allocation.
Additionally, several national media regulators are expanding their competences to also comply with the Digital Services Act (DSA). At the same time, further action is needed to address concerns regarding the safety of journalists as well as improve safeguards for the independence of some media regulators and public service media, increase the transparency of ownership and ensure better fairness and transparency in the allocation of state advertising. In the enlargement countries, there are also concerns in relation to the politicisation of media regulators and the financial sustainability of public broadcasters, as well as with the appointment of the broadcasters' leadership.
Read the full press release.