Slovakia's public broadcasting overhaul allows government to control media, critics say
FOX NewsMAY 2 2024
Slovakia to Replace Public Broadcaster With New Body
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The Spin
Left narrative
Just like Viktor Orbán's Hungary, Fico's populist regime is actively turning what used to be an independent media outlet into a state propaganda machine. Not only does this violate Slovakia's democratic norms, but also the EU's Media Freedom Act. While he argues that the current broadcast station has a left-wing bias, public trust in RTVS is actually quite high. If Fico has his way, the STVR board will become a media politburo devoid of any editorial freedom.
Right narrative
European elites only complain about newly-appointed media directors when they're appointed by Eurosceptics. Fico's government, which was democratically elected, has decided to create a new media board selected by Parliament — a normal function completely in line with the law. While pro-EU governments are never called out for producing pro-EU propaganda, any populist government that attempts to balance the playing field is labeled as "authoritarian."