The EU’s new media freedom law came into effect on Friday, offering stronger protections for journalists, but a key provision on online platforms is sparking debate over which media qualify for certain safeguards.
The European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) aims to safeguard press freedom and bolster democracy by introducing transparency measures regarding media ownership and state advertising, as well as robust safeguards for journalists and their sources.
The law also seeks to help traditional media outlets compete with social media-based outlets and adapt to the rise of technologies such as generative AI.
One provision requires Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs), such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, to promote diverse media content and prevent the arbitrary removal or algorith