Opposition lawmakers in Italy said Thursday that the European Commission will launch infringement proceedings against the country on Friday over a breach of the European Media Freedom Act. The action relates to the government’s failure to guarantee the independence of public broadcaster Rai from political influence.
The warning comes amid growing concern over proposed reforms to Rai’s governance structure. The reform, backed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration, would reduce the required parliamentary majority to appoint Rai’s board. Under the new rules, a simple majority would be sufficient as of the third round of voting, down from the current two-thirds requirement.
Opposition parties say this change would effectively allow the ruling coalition to install Rai leadership without broader parliamentary consensus — a move they argue increases political control over public broadcasting.
“As of tomorrow, Italy will officially enter infringement proceedings for violation of the European Media Freedom Act,” said opposition members of the parliamentary commission overseeing Rai. “This is a very serious act that distances our country from democratic European principles.”
The lawmakers accused the Meloni government of consolidating power and undermining media pluralism, stating that the reform “centralizes power in the head of the government, generating financial instability.” They also warned that the infringement procedure could come at a cost to taxpayers, labelling it the “TeleMeloni Tax”.
European Media Freedom Act
The European Media Freedom Act, approved by the EU to protect editorial independence and media pluralism across member states, sets clear standards for the governance of public service broadcasters. Member states were required to implement measures ensuring independence from government control, a deadline Italy is now accused of missing.
The European Commission has not yet confirmed the start of infringement proceedings, but if opened, the case could result in financial penalties and further strain relations between Rome and Brussels.
Rai has long been at the centre of political debate in Italy, with successive governments accused of attempting to influence editorial decisions. Critics of the current reform say it marks a dangerous regression.
Meloni’s government, however, argues that the reform will simplify governance and bring stability to Rai, which has faced leadership disputes and funding challenges in recent years.
The issue is now shaping up as another flashpoint in Italy’s tense political climate, with opposition parties accusing the government of undermining democratic norms and freedom of the press.
