Brussels, 07/01/2011 (Agence Europe) - Hungary is in breach of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, more specifically Article 11 on media freedom and media pluralism. This is the finding of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) about a new law passed by the Hungarian parliament on 1 January 2011 that violates freedom of expression, editorial independence and fundamental rights. The law has raised deep concern among European trade unions.
In a press release published on Thursday 6 January 2011, the ETUC says: “This new media law clearly shows that Hungary wants to control opinion and curb free public debate. This censorship law is unworthy of a democracy and of a country currently assuming the political leadership of the EU.”
The ETUC adds that “the new council set up to investigate, judge and levy heavy fines on the media (both publishers and broadcasters) if they do not provide 'balanced coverage,' raises the question of the independence of such a media regulator and creates a real danger for democracy.” (Com- G.B./transl.fl)