Background & Purpose
As media consumption shifts online, the rules for traditional television and radio broadcasts needed to be updated to also cover digital platforms.
Proposals & Debate
The government proposed amendments to the Radio and Television Act to ensure that public service companies follow the same strict rules online as they do on traditional broadcast channels.
The Decision
The Swedish parliament voted in favor of the government's proposal, making it possible to set rules for impartiality, corrections, and advertising for online content.
Does this affect you?
- Public service companies: Must adapt their digital publishing and online services to comply with the new requirements regarding impartiality and advertising bans.
- Digital media consumers: Will experience a more reliable and strictly regulated news and media environment when using public service websites and apps.
In Practice
- Public service companies must follow rules on impartiality and factual accuracy even on their websites and apps.
- Requirements for handling corrections and right of reply now explicitly apply to digital content.
- Stricter regulations regarding advertising, sponsorship, and product placement are established for internet platforms.
- The government is granted the legal authority to decide specific terms for online broadcasts and transmissions.