Romania Debates EU Media Freedom Act
The Union of Romania's Professional Journalists (UZPR) held a conference on Thursday at the Parliament Palace to discuss the challenges and implications of implementing the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), set to take effect across the EU on August 8, CE Report quotes AGERPRES
Attendees—including lawmakers, journalists, and experts—agreed that the EMFA is vital for protecting press freedom, transparency, and democratic values. The regulation mandates transparency of media ownership and funding, safeguards journalists from surveillance and intimidation, and defends source confidentiality.
Senate Chairman Mircea Abrudean emphasized that media freedom is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and called for legislation aligned with EU standards. Other speakers, including MPs and government officials, echoed the need for robust national laws and active participation from civil society to uphold press independence.
The conference also addressed challenges such as digital media influence, legislative gaps in evaluating journalism, and the need for independent oversight mechanisms, with many calling for urgent action to ensure Romania fully complies with the new EU framework.
