The Council of Europe launches a new Recommendation on principles for media and communication governance. The structural transformation of the public sphere requires the modernisation of governance models, both for States and media stakeholders. The instrument identifies issues that need addressing through governance and looks at how to enact governance frameworks that are compliant with human rights and the rule of law, building on and updating the existing standards. 

The Council of Europe recommends applying fifteen procedural and substantive principles to media and communication governance in the Council of Europe member states, among others addressing the challenge of how to appropriately include the role of online platforms in the media and communication sector. The Recommendation is accompanied by an explanatory memorandum which breaks down individual principles into detailed guidance for different public and private actors involved in the governance processes. 

• For a quick overview read the Summary of the Recommendation