We’ve got it!

Finally! We’ve got it!

The text of the European Media Freedom Act “is a wrap” in the European Parliament. What is in it?

– It prohibits all forms – political, ownership and business – of interference in editorial decisions.

– It safeguards journalists from being coerced into exposing sources, being spied on, etc.

– It ensures public disclosure of information on the ownership and state funding of a media outlet. The same applies to online platforms.

– Any acquisitions of media companies will be preceded by an assessment of the impact on editorial independence.

– It sets up an independent European Board for Media Services, which will in essence monitor the state of the media in the Member States.

– The Board will be complemented with the creation of an independent expert group representing the media sector and civil society.

With this Act, we are essentially establishing fundamental principles, a legal basis. A European acquis that will protect journalists and media outlets. It will guarantee media pluralism and independence.

The state of media freedom varies significantly across the European Union, yet no Member State is immune to pressure and attempts to undermine it. The public media, a pillar of credible information for the people, are in many places – though fortunately no longer in Slovenia – at the very least subject to subjugation attempts. And I am not merely referring to Hungary and Poland. Or to Slovenia under the previous government. Unfortunately.

Greece. The Prime Minister’s Office was exposed spying on journalists.

Austria. The former Chancellor resigned after an investigation was launched into suspicions that his team funnelled money to the media. For favourable coverage.

France. The owner of a (once) prominent newspaper turned billionaire, known for promoting far-right ideology through the media. He handpicked the editor. I assume there is no need to elaborate on the resulting new “standards” of reporting.

…

It’s up to you to decide who you trust and who you don’t. Which media you will or will not follow. The Act does not interfere with that. But it is, of course, right that you get transparent, credible, professional information. Without lies and conspiracies. Just as it would be right for a faction of politics to refrain from every attempt to seek control over the media or manipulate people.

But rather than changing course, this same faction – and their die-hard supporters – maintain their tactics of propaganda, intrigue, artificial divisions, vested interests. Continue to mislead.

Incidentally, they are doing the same with my plenary address (see link below). I wouldn’t mind substantive comments on it, but there are none. Because it is easier to criticise my background, gender, while at the same time fabricating additional “facts”. Also about RTV Slovenija, by the way.

This is their classic strategy, and I couldn’t care less. What I do care about is what will happen to the European Media Freedom Act in the end. The final step awaits: negotiations with the European Commission and the Member States. I believe in success and in good compromises, because no one has to fear this legislation … except those who seek to undermine media freedom.

– Irena