On 25 November 2022, ERGA adopted its opinion on the European Commission's proposal for a European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). This crucial legislative project aims to protect media freedom, pluralism and independence and ensure a well-functioning internal media market in the EU. European citizens need access to an independent and pluralistic media offer to form their own opinions and thus participate effectively in democratic life.
In this context, ERGA welcomes the EMFA and supports its objectives. ERGA embraces the principles-based approach and the appropriate level of minimum harmonisation. ERGA also appreciates the proposal's ambition, which covers a wide range of relevant topics such as the rights and obligations of media service providers, the protection of journalists and public service media. In particular, ERGA welcomes that the EMFA intends to address critical issues such as access to online media content and problems related to media service providers established outside the EU. ERGA proposes concrete solutions to strengthen these key provisions further.