European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) – regulation coming into force soon

Regulatory background and objectives

Following the adoption of the EMFA in 2024, EU Member States will have to transpose the legislation into their national legal systems by August 2025. The aim of the law is to strengthen media independence, increase transparency of media ownership and ensure media pluralism in all Member States. The Guide aims to support this process, with a particular focus on protection against political pressure and transparent management of public advertising spending.

New safeguards for editorial freedom

One of the most important innovations is the provision ensuring the protection of editorial offices. According to the law, media service providers are obliged to establish and apply internal procedures to preserve the independence of editorial decision-making. The document highlights that owners and managers must not exert pressure on content decisions, and journalists must be protected from any political, economic or legal influence.

According to the guidelines, ensuring editorial freedom requires the existence of internal regulations, regular information to journalists about their rights, and a reporting system that allows for anonymous reporting of abuses.