Romania applies the new European regulation on press freedom

The Ministry of Culture is adapting national legislation to apply the new European regulation on media freedom, known as the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), which entered into force on August 8 and which protects both the pluralism and independence of the press in the EU, as well as journalists and their sources.

"The Media Freedom Act supports press freedom, media pluralism, editorial responsibility, requiring adaptation of national legislation, in particular for the clear definition of the media service provider, beyond television and radio, as well as for the balanced regulation of digital actors, without affecting freedom of expression".

Thus, "in Romania, mechanisms will be created to combat governmental or economic interference in editorial activity, ensuring real editorial independence", the ministry states after its representatives participated on Wednesday at the UZPR National Conference where these issues were discussed.

"Transparent criteria are required for licensing, approving and sanctioning the press, avoiding overregulation and supporting the depoliticization of decisions. The measures aim to protect journalists against abusive surveillance, intimidation and provide protection for sources. Obligations regarding the transparency of media ownership and public financing of press institutions are imposed. Mechanisms will be created to combat governmental or economic interference in editorial activity, ensuring real editorial independence".

In implementing the regulation, the Ministry of Culture collaborates with the Parliament, the National Agency for the Promotion of Culture and the Romanian Broadcasting Corporation, ANCOM, the Public Radio and Television, civil society and professional press associations.

Proposals to amend the legislation for the application of the new regulation will be subject to public consultation.

Translated by: Radu Matei