European Media Freedom Act Incoming

• Published date: 05 April 2024
• Law Firm: Lewis Silkin
• Author: Mr Geraint Lloyd-Taylor

The European Commission expressed concerns about the independence of the media in some member states. It identified worrying trends, including increased interference in editorial decisions and challenges in providing quality media services. There were also barriers to cross-border operation and a lack of transparency in certain areas. As a result, in September 2022, the Commission proposed the European Media Freedom Act (the 'Act').

What is the European Media Freedom Act?

In summary, the Act aims to better protect editorial independence, media pluralism, ensure transparency and fairness and facilitate better cooperation of media authorities through a new European Media Board.

It includes safeguards intended to help journalists perform their job freely and safely. It also aims to help both public and private media organisations operate more easily across borders in the EU internal market, without undue pressure and in the context of the digital transformation of the media space.

The Act also builds...