European Parliament Warns of Chilling Effect on Press Freedom Over Metsola Reporting Directive

The European Parliament Office in Malta has raised concerns over a directive issued by the Broadcasting Authority (BA) regarding media reporting on European Parliament President Roberta Metsola. In a letter sent to the BA, the Office argues that the directive, which calls for caution when reporting on Metsola in the run-up to June's MEP elections, could have a chilling effect on press freedom in the country.

The directive, aimed at ensuring a level playing field among candidates contesting the European election, gives the BA the power to sanction media houses for their coverage of the European Parliament and its President. However, the office contends that the singling-out of the European Parliament and Metsola is unprecedented and could curtail voices and information from the parliament.

The European Parliament Office states that the wording of the directive does not correspond with the BA's stated intentions and instead makes a level playing field impossible. They reiterate their call for the BA to encourage media houses to enable broad and far-reaching discussion in the lead-up to the elections, and have reserved the right to take further action on the matter.

Why this matters: The directive's potential impact on press freedom in Malta raises important questions about the balance between ensuring fair elections and protecting the media's ability to report on public figures and institutions. The European Parliament's response highlights the significance of this issue not just for Malta, but for the broader European political landscape.

The Office's letter emphasizes the importance of allowing journalists to freely report on the activities of the European Parliament and its President, arguing that the directive could impinge on the parliament's ability to fulfill its mandate in Malta. As the country prepares for the upcoming MEP elections, the debate over the BA's directive and its implications for press freedom is likely to remain a key point of discussion and concern for both local and European stakeholders.

Key Takeaways

• Malta's BA issued directive restricting media coverage of EP President Metsola.
• EP Office in Malta argues directive could have chilling effect on press freedom.
• Directive gives BA power to sanction media for coverage of EP and Metsola.
• EP Office says directive's wording makes level playing field impossible.
• Debate highlights tension between fair elections and press freedom in Malta.