June 6, 2017

The proposed new Directive, which will include online platforms, was approved by 314 votes to 266 with 41 abstentions.

The mandate consists of the amendments the Culture Committee voted on previously. The amendments strengthen the protection of children against violence and hatred on TV and online platforms, whilst also proposing new rules on advertising and a 30% quota of European works on video on demand platforms.

Under the new rules, video-sharing platforms will have a duty to take appropriate action when users flag up any content inciting violence or hatred. They will also have to make it easy for users to do so.

MEPs also defined new rules for advertising, with a maximum quota of 20% per day and stricter rules for advertising, product placement, sponsorship and teleshopping in children’s programmes. Broadcasters and video sharing platforms will have the opportunity to self- and co-regulate, before Member State authorities decide whether to impose specific rules.

MEPs said that the promotion of European audiovisual works is a priority. European productions will therefore need to make up at least 30% of the offering of VOD platforms, with the aim of reflecting and promoting European diversity. To read the European Parliament’s press release in full, click here.