European Media Freedom Act: can it stop the democratic backsliding?

Abstract

The introduction of the European Media Freedom Act was designed to protect media freedom across Europe at a time when it is under threat from autocratic states. Despite its introduction, however, there are a number of issues with the Act and concerns from civil society organisations that it will be unable to improve media freedom across Europe and, in some cases, it may actually weaken protections. This article examines specific Articles of the Act and emphasises how there are issues with the protections afforded to journalists/ism. In particular, the article focuses on: who is defined as a journalist; confidentiality of sources; protection of journalists against surveillance; and the role of Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) in the spread of mis/disinformation.