The smooth launch of the Hungarian Presidency has been marred by the controversy surrounding the adoption of a media law in Hungary. The law, which has been called into question by the EU’s Digital Agenda Commissioner, contains a number of provisions that have caused concern. The « obligation to provide balanced coverage » has been criticised as undemocratic and in breach of the right to freedom of expression. Both European and World Newspaper Associations have voiced their objections to the law, which they argue would unreasonably subject journalists to restrictions and fines. The provisions have been scrutinised by Commission officials who now require that Hungary submits “observations” in order to address their “serious doubts” as to the law’s compatibility with EU law. Failure to do so could result in the launch of infringement proceedings against Hungary, which would undoubtedly undermine their Presidency programme for the next 5 months.

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