By Omer Tugrul Cam
BRUSSELS (AA) - The European Commission on Friday said it has adopted a "European Media Freedom Act" with an aim to “preserve media pluralism and independence in the EU.”
In a statement, the commission said the proposal was part of "the EU's efforts in promoting democratic participation, addressing disinformation and supporting media freedom and pluralism."
The new act will require member states to ensure the editorial freedom of the media outlets as well as to improve protection of journalistic sources, the statement said.
It will also require news providers to "ensure transparency of ownership by publicly disclosing such information and take measures with a view to guaranteeing the independence of individual editorial decisions," it added.
The proposal focuses on the transparency of state advertising, the statement said, adding it will bring safeguards against "unjustified" removal of online media content, and ensure a right of customization of the media offer on devices and interfaces, such as connected TVs.
The act also brings safeguards against the use of spyware against media as well as ensure the existence of independent public service media, according to the statement.
The proposal is expected to be opposed by Poland and Hungary, which are being criticized by the EU Commission on the grounds that there is a regression in areas such as media freedom, democracy and the rule of law.
In order for the EU Commission's proposal to become law, it must be accepted by the European Parliament and its member states.