Newsletter August 2025

Europe strengthens media freedom, independence and pluralism with new European Media Freedom Act

The European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) entered into application across the EU, marking a major step toward strengthening media freedom, independence, and pluralism. It provides legal certainty for media providers, protects journalists (including from spyware and forced disclosure of sources), and ensures editorial freedom and stable funding for public service media. It also prevents unwarranted content removal by large online platforms and establishes the European Board for Media Services. Some provisions related to user customisation of media services will apply from 8 May 2027.

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50% of young people encounter hostile messages online

The Eurostat stated that in 2023, nearly half (49%) of young EU internet users aged 16 to 29 encountered hostile or degrading messages online. Estonia recorded the highest incidence at 69%, with Denmark and Finland close behind at 68%. The lowest occurrences were in Croatia (24%), Romania (27%), and Bulgaria (31%). Hostility based on political or social views was the most common reason, especially in Estonia (60%), Finland (56%), and Denmark (49%). Hostility due to sexual orientation was also significant, particularly in Estonia (46%), Slovakia, and Portugal (44% each). Racial or ethnic origins were another major reason, with the highest reports in the Netherlands, Portugal (45% each), and Estonia (44%). This data coincides with the celebration of World Wide Web Day on August 1st.

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Commission gathers views on how the DMA can support fair and contestable digital markets and AI sector

The European Commission is reviewing how the Digital Markets Act supports fair and contestable digital markets, with a focus on the impact of AI services. A call for evidence and AI questionnaire are now open to gather input from businesses, especially SMEs, and consumers. Feedback will inform the Commission’s DMA review report, due in May 2026.

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