EU Report Highlights Rule of Law Concerns in Member States
- EU's rule of law report highlights press freedom issues in member states.
- Failings in Hungary, Slovakia, Italy, and France are pointed out in the report.
- Press freedom concerns raised by the EU in several European countries.
BRUSSELS – The European Commission's annual rule of law report has identified significant failings in Hungary, Slovakia, Italy, and France regarding media freedom. Vice President Věra Jourová emphasized that while the Commission currently lacks the authority to dismantle Viktor Orbán's media empire in Hungary or prevent Slovakia from scrapping its public broadcaster, new media freedom powers will be available in the coming months. This report serves as a critical assessment of member states' adherence to rule of law principles, particularly in media freedom. The report calls on France to enhance transparency in media ownership and urges Slovakia to restore the independence of its public broadcaster. These recommendations are part of the Commission's strategy to address serious issues affecting media freedom across the EU. Jourová noted that, at present, the Commission's influence is limited to diplomatic pressure, as the Media Freedom Act will not take effect until next summer. Despite the challenges, the report is seen as a necessary tool for the Commission to highlight rule of law deficiencies. A Commission official stated that the report is essential for documenting issues, especially in light of potential legal actions against countries that enact laws similar to Hungary's controversial media regulations. The urgency of the situation underscores the need for immediate action once the new legal framework is in place. As the EU navigates these complex issues, the report serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to uphold media freedom and the rule of law within its member states.