OSCE Representative on Media Freedom concerned about new restrictive conditions for broadcasting of Spanish football matches

VIENNA, 21 September 2022 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Teresa Ribeiro, expressed her concern today over the new conditions La Liga Nacional de Fútbol Profesional (LFP), the Spanish football authority, has introduced for the broadcasting of football matches for the 2022-2023 season.

According to reports, the conditions come down to a ban on journalists to ask uncomfortable questions to footballers and managers. In case speakers, narrators, commentators and editors fail to comply with the obligation to report in a positive way, the conditions grant the LFP authority to ask the platforms with the broadcasting rights not to “reoffend” and to request the withdrawal of “non-complying” journalists.

“The new conditions unreasonably limit media freedom and the public’s right to information. This is unfortunately becoming a growing practice in the world of football. It conveys a message that certain powerful groups in society can impose their own rules on the media and de facto force journalists to communicate only information that favors their interests. It is important to remember that State authorities have positive obligations to protect freedom of the media and access to information of public interest,” Ribeiro said.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.