Hungary's new media law is undermining freedom of expression, according to an international mission of press freedom and media organisations.
It found that regulation is incompatible with European and international law; that its licensing regime could threaten diversity and pluralism; and that opportunities to challenge the decisions of the National Media and Infocommunications Authority are far too limited.
Members of the mission discussed the problems with journalists, lawyers, representatives of civil society, the new media authorities and a Hungarian government representative.
Aidan White, head of the mission, said: "The confluence of a difficult regulatory environment, deteriorating economic conditions, technological change and convergence in media, and a lack of unity and solidarity within the professional community has created a perfect storm that threatens the future of independent journalism in Hungary."
Among the groups represented on the partnership mission were Article 19, Index on Censorship, the International Press Institute, European Federation of Journalists and the South East Europe Media Organisation.
Sources: Index on Censorship/IPI
