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    HomeNewsEuropean Commission Launches €3 Million Call for a Festival Promoting Media Freedom

    European Commission Launches €3 Million Call for a Festival Promoting Media Freedom

    In a bold initiative to bolster media freedom and pluralism across the European Union, the European Commission has launched a call for proposals for a European Festival of Journalism and Media Freedom. This three-edition festival, backed by a €3 million budget, is poised to become a cornerstone in fostering dialogue among journalists, media outlets, civil society organizations, and media professionals.

    Bridging Media Freedom Gaps: The Vision Behind the Festival

    The festival is designed as a forum to address critical challenges facing the media sector, including legislative complexities, disinformation, journalist safety, and economic sustainability. It also aims to raise awareness about the indispensable role of journalists in democracies and the obstacles they face, such as threats to press freedom within EU member states.

    One of the highlights will be discussions surrounding the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), which entered into force in May 2024. The act represents a watershed moment in EU media legislation, focusing on editorial independence, media ownership transparency, and protection against unwarranted content removal by major online platforms.

    Call for Proposals: Who Can Apply?

    The Commission has invited media organizations, NGOs, editors, publishers, universities, and research centers to submit proposals by the deadline of March 1, 2025. The successful applicant will be responsible for organizing three annual editions of the festival and creating a platform to facilitate contributions and discussions. Each edition will culminate in actionable policy recommendations and best practices aimed at strengthening media pluralism and freedom in line with the Commission’s 2024-2029 Political Guidelines.

    The Festival’s Broader Context

    This festival builds upon the EU’s robust commitment to media freedom and pluralism, as enshrined in Article 11 of the EU’s Charter of Fundamental Rights. It aligns with the Commission’s strategic initiatives, including the European Democracy Action Plan and the Rule of Law Mechanism.

    European Media Freedom Act: A Game-Changer

    The EMFA, which draws from the revised Audiovisual Media Services Directive, offers a comprehensive framework to safeguard media independence. It includes:

    • Editorial Independence: Protecting journalistic sources and banning spyware use.
    • Transparency: Ensuring public disclosure of media ownership.
    • Public Media Safeguards: Establishing financial sustainability and governance protections for public broadcasters.
    • Content Moderation: Preventing arbitrary content removal by large online platforms.
    • Market Integrity: Requiring impact assessments for media market consolidations.

    These measures underscore the EU’s determination to address challenges like Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), digital monopolization, and economic vulnerabilities in the media industry.

    Supporting Journalists and Media Professionals

    The European Commission’s focus on media extends beyond legislative efforts. It has allocated significant direct funding for projects aimed at monitoring media freedom, defending journalists, and supporting collaborative initiatives. For example:

    • The Media Pluralism Monitor, developed by the Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom (CMPF), evaluates risks to media pluralism across Europe.
    • The Creative Europe Programme, with a €2.5 billion budget, fosters cross-border media collaboration and innovation.

    In parallel, recovery plans such as the COVID-19 state aid framework and the REACT-EU program have provided financial relief to media outlets struggling under economic pressures.

    Addressing Persistent Challenges

    Despite these strides, the EU’s 2024 Rule of Law Report highlighted persistent challenges:

    • Limited financial stability of public service broadcasters.
    • Insufficient transparency in media ownership.
    • Unequal distribution of state advertising funds.
    • Gaps in journalist safety protections.

    The festival aims to tackle these concerns head-on, offering a platform for diverse stakeholders to engage in dialogue and develop actionable solutions.

    A Crucial Step for Media Freedom

    The European Festival of Journalism and Media Freedom represents a critical step in reinforcing the role of media as the cornerstone of democracy. By fostering collaboration, dialogue, and awareness, the EU is not only addressing current challenges but also paving the way for a resilient and pluralistic media landscape in the future.

    As the March 2025 deadline approaches, the call for proposals is expected to attract a wide array of applicants eager to contribute to this vital mission. With its ambitious scope and substantial backing, the festival promises to make a significant impact on media freedom and pluralism in Europe.

    We acknowledge The European Times for the information.

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