Bill on Public Broadcasting Reform and Audiovisual Sovereignty

This French legislative proposal introduces a major structural overhaul of the public broadcasting sector, centered on the creation of a new holding company called 'France Médias' effective 1 January 2026. The holding would consolidate France Télévisions, Radio France, and the Institut National de l'Audiovisuel (INA) under a single governance structure, aiming to streamline operations, reduce redundancy, and strengthen the editorial and strategic coherence of public media. The bill also introduces a cap on advertising airtime on public television channels, in line with longstanding debates about the commercialization of public broadcasting. By limiting advertising, the proposal seeks to differentiate public channels from commercial competitors and reduce dependence on ad revenue, which would necessitate alternative public funding mechanisms. Additionally, the proposal addresses the rights to broadcast major sporting events, ensuring public channels retain access to high-audience events deemed of national interest. It also touches on the resale and reallribution of TNT (Télévision Numérique Terrestre — digital terrestrial television) channels, regulating how broadcast licenses and spectrum slots can be transferred in the private sector. Overall, the bill reflects France's intent to assert greater sovereignty over its audiovisual landscape, defend public media's role against streaming platforms, and modernize the regulatory framework governing both public and commercial broadcasters.

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