A proposed bill seeks to require advertisers with budgets over one million euros to redirect up to 10% of their digital advertising funds to online news and general information (IPG) services. This initiative aims to ensure the continued availability of quality information by providing financial support to news publishers. However, the proposal has sparked concerns regarding its economic consequences and whether it aligns with European law. The bill would amend the 1986 law on the regime of the press and the Commercial Code, mandating that non-compliant companies face fines of up to 75,000 euros for company directors or the company itself.
The proposed legislation contrasts with the recommendations of the Grand Council of Information, which emphasized transparency and incentives without singling out specific media types. Critics argue that the bill could reduce the profitability of advertising investments without addressing broader changes in the media industry. Additionally, they note that major advertisers—those primarily affected by the bill—have already maintained their financial support for the press in recent years. In contrast, smaller advertisers, who are not subject to the law, have experienced a sharper decline in advertising revenue.
The bill's exclusive focus on IPG services has raised questions about why other media forms, such as magazines, radio, and television, are excluded. The European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), which becomes effective in 2025, promotes a broader concept of media service providers that is not limited to print or online press. Critics suggest that the proposed measure could be seen as discriminatory within the press sector and may conflict with EMFA principles of justification, proportionality, objectivity, and non-discrimination.
The media landscape has evolved significantly, with new players such as native video media, specialized creators, and open-source investigation collectives contributing to public information. Policies that limit advertising resources to a select group of actors may hinder the diversification of the media ecosystem. Rather than directing advertising investments through administrative means, some advocates suggest improving the competitiveness of press organizations in the advertising market.
Current digital advertising regulations, particularly those related to personal data protection, may prevent press publishers from fully using their audience data to provide more targeted and transparent advertising options. A careful relaxation of these rules, accompanied by strict transparency and governance measures, could help sustain editorial teams economically and strengthen democratic public debate. As the government plans to introduce the bill by the end of October for rapid adoption by year's end, concerns about its potential impact on the advertising market and media diversity remain.
Proposed Advertising Redirection Bill Sparks Debate Over Press Funding and Economic Impact
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