The European Parliament, the Commission and the twenty-seven member states of the European Union (EU) reached an agreement this Friday, December 15, after months of negotiations for legislation that protects the media and journalists. Faced with the multiplication of attacks on press freedom, including in Europe, the European Union is putting in place safeguards intended to safeguard media freedom, pluralism and editorial independence.
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With our Brussels office,
The negotiations between Parliament and the twenty-seven capitals were tough until the end because several member states of the European Union (EU) – including France and Italy – wanted exceptions in the name of their right to safeguard their national security. According to Parliament’s negotiators, one of the great qualities of this European regulation is to reject what would allow States to justify spying on journalists and the media.
“ Serious crimes »
For Sabine Verheyen, MEP, “ it is important to see that member states have a duty to protect their national security, but this should not be the focus of their actions against journalists, only if it is really necessary. We have put huge obstacles and burdens in place for member states before they can do this. Not only does this require a judge’s prior decision, but these must be serious crimes and not a catch-all for what they would like to call “national security.” »
Rules for public media
In addition to limiting surveillance by authorities such as banning spyware, the regulation also provides rules for public media, their financing and the appointment of their leaders in order to avoid political interference or even a takeover as in Hungary. This regulation also provides for the protection of sources and transparency regarding media owners.
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