The Polish government has adopted amendments to the laws on radio and TV and subscription fees.
According to press.pl, the changes align the legislation with the European Commission’s position of 2011, which requires a comprehensive specification of the public service mission and the limiting of state aid to public service media.
It adds that the amendments, which were prepared by the Ministry of Culture, introduce a so-called ‘oligation card’ that specifies the mission of public service broadcasters for a period of five years. At present, 19 public radio and TV broadcasters have to submit quarterly reports on the implementation of the public service mission to the National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT).
Once the changes are in place, they will be will be required to establish a charter with the KRRiT defining which projects they will implement as part their public service mission. They will also have to submit a plan as to how these projects will be financed, both from public funds and commercial activities.
Significantly, in producing a comprehensive specification of the public service mission, broadcasters’ activities on the internet and digital technologies will have to be taken into account.
The amendments also envisages a procedure for so-called prior assessment of anticipated significant media services that can be financed from public funds.
Furthermore, binding recommentations for the implementation of the public service mission will be introduced.
Failure to comply with them will result in the imposition of financial penalties.
