Brussels, 06/07/2015 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 6 July, the European Commission opened a public consultation on the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD directive), which it is proposing to revise in 2016. The consultation is calling on stakeholders to give their opinions on a raft of different questions. These include: what improvements should be made to the current rules for broadcast and on demand services; how can children and other users be better protected; how can we support European creative works, stimulate cultural diversity and promote information access and regulate advertising in the audiovisual online world.
The AVMSD directive was adopted in 2010 and regulates the role and responsibility of market players, promotes European creative works, governs advertising and ensures the protection of minors. With the rapid evolution of new technologies and the emergence of an online world, rules have to be revised and adapted to the new situation. Revision of the directive is included in the digital single market strategy presented on 6 May by the Commission (see EUROPE 11309) and will look at whether the directive's scope should be extended to new services and players. The consultation is open until 30 September. (Isabelle Lamberty)