Proposed Lithuanian law changes to LRT could undermine editorial independence and media freedom, drawing EU concern.
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The Lithuanian Parliament has approved amendments to the National Radio and Television Act that simplify the dismissal process for the head of LRT, with proposals suggesting secret voting and reducing the required number of votes from eight to seven out of twelve members of the LRT board. The proposed changes remove the requirement to link dismissal reasons to public interest, allowing removal if the administrator performs duties improperly or if the board does not approve the annual activity report.
Various European organizations have expressed concern that these legislative changes could negatively affect the editorial independence and financial stability of the public broadcaster, potentially violating Article 5 of the European Convention on Freedom of Expression. Organizations like Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) argue the amendments facilitate greater political pressure on LRT management. They note that while a previous audit found LRT to be effective and transparent without any editorial bias, these changes appear linked to efforts by ruling coalition parties to increase political control over the broadcaster.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) also voiced serious concern regarding the proposed changes, stating they undermine safeguards against political influence and contradict EU standards for public service broadcasters. Furthermore, the European Commission has reviewed the proposed amendments and requested Lithuanian institutions clarify their compliance with the European Media Freedom Act. Protests have taken place, with over 130,000 signatures on a petition opposing the changes.
