[INTRODUCTION]
In today’s ever-changing media landscape, it is essential to ensure media pluralism and independence. It is with this in mind that the European Parliament recently approved a law aimed at strengthening these fundamental principles.
[DEVELOPMENT]
The European Media Freedom Act, presented by the Commission in September 2022, aims to protect the editorial independence of media from political and economic powers, while promoting transparency in media ownership.
This initiative follows the deterioration of the situation in certain European Union countries, such as Poland and Hungary, where the independence of the media is threatened.
The law proposes several measures to strengthen the protection of journalists and sources of information. In particular, it prohibits the detention of journalists, searches of documents and searches of homes, except in strictly regulated circumstances.
Additionally, the law includes provisions to limit the use of spyware, such as Pegasus, to judicial investigations for serious crimes such as terrorism or human trafficking. It also prohibits the use of this software in investigations relating to the professional activity of the media and their employees.
Finally, the European law on media freedom also addresses the issue of moderation of journalistic content by online platforms. It aims to avoid arbitrary deletions or restrictions of content by granting specific treatment to media fulfilling certain conditions, such as transparency on ownership, editorial independence and submission to a regulatory authority.
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This European law on media freedom is a significant step forward in protecting media pluralism and independence in Europe. By guaranteeing editorial independence in the face of political and economic influences, by strengthening the protection of journalists and sources of information, and by regulating the moderation of journalistic content online, it aims to preserve freedom of expression and access to quality information for European citizens.
However, despite its approval by the European Parliament, there are still negotiations to be carried out with member states before final adoption. The debates around possible exemptions in the name of national security, and the criteria for media recognition for the moderation of online content, promise to be intense and complex.
It is essential that this law is implemented effectively and that rigorous monitoring and control measures are put in place to ensure its application in all countries of the European Union.
In conclusion, the European Media Freedom Act is a major step forward in protecting the media and journalistic independence in Europe. It will strengthen public confidence in information and preserve democracy and the fundamental values of the European Union. Now is the time for Member States to engage in constructive negotiations to achieve final adoption of this crucial law.