The European Commission seeks views about the impact of, and the need to update, the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) in the quickly evolving media landscape. The AVSMD was last revised in 2018.
The audiovisual media environment is changing due to digital tech, such as connected TVs, changes to media distribution; viewers’ evolving preferences to access media via online platforms; and the rising importance of new media players, such as influencers.
The Commission will investigate whether the AVMSD rules are still effective and if they need to be updated to make sure that there is appropriate visibility and prominence for European media, a more level playing field between traditional and new digital players, as well as adequate protections for viewers, particularly children, when viewing audiovisual content online. It will also investigate the prospects of simplifying advertising rules.
The AVMSD is a cornerstone of the EU audiovisual and media policy and aims to enhance cultural diversity and media pluralism in the EU. It supports the circulation of national media content across borders and the competitiveness of European media companies. At the same time, it seeks to protect viewers, particularly minors, from harmful media content.
The call for evidence ends 21 December. It will feed into the evaluation of the AVMSD planned for 2026. The review of the AVMSD is part of the Commission’s commitments in the European Democracy Shield.
