The European Commission has adopted new legislation on media freedom. The media play an essential role in a democratic continent like ours, according to Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton. However, they have to face a multitude of threats which can be political, financial or competitive. They must therefore be protected and common rules must be ensured throughout Europe.
The legislation addresses the issue of media concentration and emphasises the independence and stable funding of public service media, transparency of media ownership and the allocation of state advertising. The new legislation also seeks to establish safeguards against political interference in editorial decisions and surveillance practices.
The Commission also proposes the establishment of a European Board for Media Services, an independent body composed of national media authorities. It would be able to assist the Commission with media regulation, assist national authorities or give an opinion on media market concentration or on the inclusion of third country media which may pose a risk to public safety.
