Controversial bill signed into law by Polish President; EU says talks ongoing
The Polish President has signed into law a controversial bill that hands control of state media to the government.
This despite concern from the European Union and criticism from civil rights groups.
Brussels says it is still in talks with Poland on the issue, and it’s not at the point of taking punitive measures.
The President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, has attempted to downplay the dispute.
“I’m very confident that from now to then (when action might be taken), the Polish government will present us its own reflection and will give a reaction to this.
“Let’s not over-dramatise. It’s an important issue but we have to have friendly and good relations with Poland so our approach is a
very constructive one: We are not bashing Poland.”
Amid protest, the president’s office says it’s important that state media be “impartial and objective”.
The ruling conservative Law and Justice party, which came to power in October after eight years in opposition, is
This despite concern from the European Union and criticism from civil rights groups.
Brussels says it is still in talks with Poland on the issue, and it’s not at the point of taking punitive measures.
The President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, has attempted to downplay the dispute.
“I’m very confident that from now to then (when action might be taken), the Polish government will present us its own reflection and will give a reaction to this.
“Let’s not over-dramatise. It’s an important issue but we have to have friendly and good relations with Poland so our approach is a
very constructive one: We are not bashing Poland.”
Amid protest, the president’s office says it’s important that state media be “impartial and objective”.
The ruling conservative Law and Justice party, which came to power in October after eight years in opposition, is