Possible non-compliance of public broadcaster STVR’s new administrative structure with the European Media Freedom Act

Question for written answer E-001374/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová (Renew)

A new law entered into force on 1 July 2024 which abolishes the Radio and Television of Slovakia (RTVS) and transforms it into a new entity, Slovak Television and Radio (STVR). The law stipulates that the STVR's board will consist of nine members, four of whom will be nominated by the Ministry of Culture and five by the National Council of the Slovak Republic, in which the government holds a majority. This board then elects the Director-General, which guarantees it influence over broadcasting. Media experts have already warned that the STVR's new structure may be incompatible with the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). The European Media Freedom Act makes it clear that there must be a separation between political influence and the independence and freedom of a public institution.

• 1.How will the Commission act to ensure that EMFA is not violated?
• 2.Could the Commission report on its communications with the Slovak institutions on the implementation of EMFA, given that the new legislation will enter into force next year, and in view of the ongoing consultation and the need for monitoring?
• 3.What can we expect in the coming months in terms of monitoring and consultation?

Supporter[1]

Submitted: 17.7.2024

• [1] This question is supported by a Member other than the author: Fabienne Keller (Renew)