Médiatanács

The Médiatanács, or Media Council, is an independent regulatory body in Hungary responsible for overseeing the operation of media services. Established in 2010, it replaced the National Radio and Television Commission. Its mandate includes supervising compliance with media laws, issuing broadcasting licenses, and imposing sanctions on media service providers that violate regulations. The council is also tasked with promoting media pluralism and diversity, and protecting the interests of media consumers.

The Médiatanács is composed of nine members appointed by the Parliament of Hungary. The appointment process aims to ensure political representation, with members nominated by parliamentary factions. The council's decisions are made by majority vote. Its areas of responsibility cover both traditional media, such as television and radio, and increasingly, digital platforms, although the scope of its digital regulation is a subject of ongoing debate.

The body's activities and decisions have often been a point of contention, with critics sometimes alleging political bias and a detrimental impact on media freedom in Hungary. Supporters, however, argue that the Médiatanács plays a crucial role in maintaining a fair and regulated media landscape. Its pronouncements on content, ownership, and licensing are closely watched by media organizations and civil society groups within Hungary and by international observers.