Arrr, me hearties! The scallywags be plannin' to use spyware on the journalists, but fear not, for the EU Media Freedom Act be standin' strong!
2023-12-15
Arr, me hearties! Mark ye calendars for December 15, as we prepare fer the grand trilogue meetin'. 'Tis where we reckon which scurvy dogs be pushin' fer more spyin' on them journo landlubbers, and what's bein' wagered in this treacherous game.
France, Italy, and Greece, among other countries, are pushing for authorities to have the power to spy on journalists in the name of national security, according to a recent investigation. The EU Media Freedom Act, which aims to protect media independence and pluralism, is currently being discussed in the EU Commission. The act includes safeguards against political interference and spyware use against journalists, as well as increased protection for journalistic sources. However, there are concerns about controversial clauses in the law, including a proposed special status for big media outlets and the use of surveillance tools against journalists. Digital rights advocates have criticized the proposed law, stating that it has significant flaws. A joint investigation by three EU media outlets revealed that France, Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Finland, Sweden, and Malta are the governments pushing for spyware use despite industry criticism. The fear is that such provisions would legitimize the unlawful use of spyware against journalists. Previously, Greece, Spain, Bulgaria, and Hungary have used national security as a justification for spying on journalists. The negotiations on the law continue, with representatives of EU member states discussing the issue. It remains to be seen whether a compromise will be reached that protects media freedom and journalists' privacy in Europe.