Brussels, (Unib Rashid) 8 August 2025 – New EU-wide rules to strengthen press freedom and protect journalists officially take effect today, as the core provisions of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) begin to apply across all member states.

Originally adopted by the European Parliament and Council in February 2024, the regulation aims to reinforce media independence, safeguard journalistic sources, and ensure transparency in media ownership and public advertising.

It also places obligations on digital platforms to refrain from arbitrarily restricting or removing independent media content, ensuring visibility and pluralism in the digital space.

To mark the implementation, Sabine Verheyen (EPP, Germany), Vice-President of the European Parliament and chair of its EMFA oversight group, emphasized:

“8 August 2025 marks the entry into application of the EMFA — a landmark for press freedom in the EU. But its true value will be measured in action, not words.”

Nela Riehl (Greens, Germany), chair of the Committee on Culture and Education, added:

“With the Media Freedom Act, Europe has set the benchmark for the protection of press freedom and journalistic work. But it is only meaningful if we adhere to it.”

Both leaders called on member states to fully and faithfully implement the regulation, amid growing concern over the decline of press freedom in parts of the EU.