Under the draft, television channels will be required to broadcast at least 50% of their programming in Romanian or with Romanian dubbing between 6:00 a.m. and midnight. An exception is provided for channels targeting communities where an ethnic minority constitutes the majority.
For operators that compile television packages, the minimum share of services in Romanian is proposed to be increased from 50% to 60%. At the same time, content in any other language must not exceed 30% of the package.
The bill also stipulates that at least 5% of a television channel’s weekly broadcasts must consist of works by independent producers from Moldova. The share of musical works by Moldovan composers and performers is proposed to be increased from 10% to 20%. The requirement for 30% of musical works to be in Romanian remains in place.
In addition, as Logos Press previously reported, the draft amendments to the Code on Audiovisual Media Services also stipulate that at least 10% of weekly airtime must be allocated to European works created by independent producers.
A separate section of the draft regulates the activities of the regional public audiovisual service provider in Gagauzia. The document also contains provisions on the protection of minors, the accessibility of media content for people with disabilities, and the application of international restrictive measures in the audiovisual sector.
The opposition believes that the new regulations will increase pressure on the media
Opposition representatives have criticized the bill. PSRM MP and journalist Adela Raylanu stated that, under the pretext of combating disinformation and harmonizing legislation with European standards, “mechanisms for regulating the media sphere are being expanded.”
According to her, the bill grants additional powers to the Council for Television and Radio. Raylanu noted that some of the wording is open to interpretation, which, in her view, could increase regulatory risks for small and regional television stations.
Separately, the lawmaker drew attention to the provisions regulating the activities of the regional public media service provider in Gagauzia. The bill establishes rules for the appointment of management, the operation of governing and supervisory bodies, as well as budgetary and organizational requirements for the institution.
The opposition states that it is not opposed to combating disinformation, but believes that this effort “should not become a pretext for restricting pluralism.”
The bill was approved in its first reading solely by votes from members of the ruling party. It must now pass a second reading. If adopted, the amendments are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.
