Poland's Advertising Ban: A Threat to Media Pluralism and Freedom of Information

The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) has accused the Polish government of "political manipulation of the media market" following a decision to restrict state advertising to government-friendly media outlets. The EFJ, Europe's largest journalists' group, condemned the Polish government for targeting critical voices in the mass media and violating European standards of freedom of information.

The Polish government's decision to withdraw advertising from some of the highest circulation daily newspapers, which are critical of government policy, has raised concerns about the independence and diversity of the media landscape in the country. The EFJ has supported protests in Warsaw by journalists, editors, and media owners against the ban and plans to raise the issue with the Council of Europe and the European Union.

The advertising ban has been criticized for being an act of political spite, rather than an economic judgment. The EFJ argues that clear and fair rules regarding the allocation of public advertising are vital to prevent political discrimination and government interference in the media market.

The Polish government's actions are in stark contrast to the European Union's commitment to freedom of information and media pluralism. The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has previously ruled that a general and absolute prohibition of any advertising relating to dental care services in Belgium was incompatible with EU law. The Polish advertising ban shares several elements with the Belgian ban, including a general and absolute prohibition of advertising, a list detailing permitted information on activities, and stated objectives such as the protection of public health and the dignity of the profession concerned.

The European Commission has a legal recourse to address this issue, as it is responsible for ensuring that member states comply with EU law. The Commission can initiate infringement proceedings against Poland if it fails to align its national legislation with the ECJ's ruling. Infringement proceedings can lead to a formal warning, a reasoned opinion, and ultimately, a referral to the ECJ if the member state continues to violate EU law.

In conclusion, the Polish government's advertising ban is a threat to media pluralism and freedom of information in the country. The EFJ's protest highlights the importance of independent media and the need for clear and fair rules regarding the allocation of public advertising. The European Commission should take action to ensure that Poland complies with EU law and lifts the advertising ban to promote a more diverse and independent media environment.