European Union member states have approved a new law that will provide greater protection for journalists. The law will limit governments’ control over the press and better guarantee the rights of journalists.
The law was put in place after journalists and media companies in a number of European Union member states complained that they were being subjected to pressure from the government. This happened in Hungary, Poland and elsewhere. In Greece, spyware has been used to eavesdrop on journalists. The new law limits the extent to which governments can monitor journalists.
The law will also affect social media platforms. After the law was passed, they cannot simply remove content from journalists. Media companies must also become more transparent about their government ownership and advertising.
In October, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban criticized the law, which he said was “against freedom.” “Absolutely,” X owner Elon Musk agreed.
The law still needs formal approval by member states and the European Parliament.