Bulgaria
For an EU member state, Bulgaria's media landscape has been notably fragile, historically dominated by a tight-knit group of influential personalities who acquired key media assets for political leverage. Recent years have seen a positive transformation in Bulgaria with the entry of international media groups which have elevated the standards and impartiality of journalism within the mainstream media.
Unfortunately, Bulgaria faces a combination of low levels of media literacy and historic pro-Kremlin attitudes that have left the country vulnerable to disinformation. It is often referred to as the weak link in Europe’s fight against Russian disinformation.
BFMI celebrates adoption of European Media Freedom Act but warns that accession countries must not be left behind.
New report: Defunding Disinformation in the Balkans: How International Brands Support Russia’s Agenda
BFMI hosted an event at the European Parliament on how global brands are funding media that spread disinformation in the Balkans.
BFMI welcomes the EU Parliament's endorsement of legislation to protect journalists and activists from SLAPPs, but highlights the need for further action in the Balkans. BFMI also calls on the European Council to adopt robust and effective legislation.