Media Law Creates Partisan Regulatory Council — Press Freedom Alarm Sounded

On November 19, 2010, Hungary's parliament passed a sweeping new media law creating the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH) and a Media Council with five members elected exclusively by Fidesz's parliamentary majority. The Council gained broad powers to fine and suspend media outlets for 'unbalanced' coverage and to compel disclosure of journalistic sources. The EU Commission, Reporters Without Borders, and Committee to Protect Journalists issued immediate condemnations. Critics noted all Council members were Fidesz-linked appointees serving 9-year terms.