The Evolution of Electronic Media Legal Regulation in the European Union

Abstract

It is widely recognized that the effective legal regulation of electronic media is essential for a diverse, accessible, and responsible media landscape. Within the European Union, this regulation has evolved significantly over time, reflecting the dynamic nature of the media environment. This paper examines the evolution of legal regulation of radio and television in the European Union, charting its course from the foundational Television Without Frontiers Directive (1989) and the Satellite and Cable Directive (1993, revised 2019), to its current cornerstone, the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD, 2010, revised 2018). The paper primarily focuses on the AVMSD as the most significant legal act shaping the EU’selectronic media landscape. Furthermore, it analyzes the impact of recent legal frameworks—the Digital Services Act (2022), the Digital Markets Act (2022), and the European MediaFreedom Act (2024)—demonstrating how these regulations, while not primarily designed for traditional electronic media, nonetheless have a significant impact on them. Through an analysis of these legislative developments, the paper explores how the EU’s approach has evolved over the years in response to technological advancements, market competition, media freedom challenges, and the regulation of digital platforms and streaming services.