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New rules to protect journalists at EU level

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New rules to better protect journalists are about to come into force.

The legislation also aims to protect reporters’ sources and press freedom generally in the digital age.

It will apply in all EU countries and come into effect on Friday (8 August).

The entry into application of the  European Media Freedom Act has been broadly welcomed by MEPs from across the political spectrum.

European Parliament Vice President Sabine Verheven (EPP, DE) (pictured) and the chair of the Committee on Culture and Education  Nela Riehl (Greens, DE), are among those who have greeted the new rules.

Speaking on Thursday, in a joint statement, the MEPs said, “8 August 2025 marks the entry into application of the EMFA — a landmark for press freedom in the EU.

“But its true value will be measured in action, not words. Now begins the real work: ensuring every member state implements the EMFA fully and faithfully. Media freedom is not negotiable - it is the backbone of our democracy,” said Veheyen, who chairs Parliament’s working group scrutinising the law’s implementation.

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“With the Media Freedom Act, Europe has set the benchmark for the protection of press freedom and journalistic work.

This is a great achievement. But it is only meaningful if we adhere to it. I am looking with concern at the decline in press freedom in different parts of Europe and call on all member states to implement it dutifully,” added Riehl, the chair of the Committee on Culture and Education.

In February 2024, Parliament and Council adopted new rules to protect freedom of media as well as the independence of journalists in the EU.

The regulation entered progressively into application in EU countries since May 2024, while its key provisions begin to be enforced from 8 August 2025.

The EU law enhances transparency of media outlet ownership and of allocation of state advertising, strengthens public media independence, and secure robust protection for journalists and their sources. 

To ensure visibility and pluralism, digital platforms must refrain from arbitrarily deleting or restricting independent media content.

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