German publisher associations demand revisions to EU platform regulation
BDZV and VDZ have raised concerns over the proposed Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act, citing risks to media pluralism and competition.
German publishing associations BDZV and VDZ have officially voiced concerns regarding the European Commission's legislative proposals for digital platform regulation. The associations argue that the current drafts of the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Digital Markets Act (DMA) leave critical issues unresolved, threatening the economic and media landscape across Europe.
Specifically, the groups worry that the DMA's framework might hinder individual member states from applying stricter national antitrust and media laws against dominant digital platforms. They warned that failing to provide robust oversight of these 'gatekeepers' could inadvertently strengthen existing monopolies rather than curb them.
Regarding the Digital Services Act, the associations fear the proposed content regulation mechanisms could lead to unintended consequences for digital news outlets. They argue that the current wording could mirror restrictive national legislation, potentially creating risks for news organizations that shape public discourse.
BDZV and VDZ have called upon the German government and the European Parliament to push for significant amendments during the legislative process. They maintain that the final regulations must effectively guarantee freedom, diversity, and competition within digital journalism.