Hungary’s appointed DSA authority raises concerns in Brussels

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are raising concerns about the independence of Hungary’s appointed authority, the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH), tasked with enforcing the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) – a new content moderation regulation set to come into force on 17 February 2024.

In a letter to the European Commission, the MEPs express apprehensions that entrusting control of online platforms to the NMHH, known for its connection to government propaganda, may violate the DSA’s independence requirements.

The DSA mandates each EU member state to appoint a Digital Services Coordinator (DSC) to enforce the law, and Hungary’s choice of NMHH has sparked concerns about potential external influence. The letter highlights the importance of the DSC’s independence, particularly in managing complaints related to content moderation and freedom of expression. The MEPs also reference concerns about the lack of independence of Hungary’s Media Council (Médiatanács), which is part of NMHH. The letter seeks clarification from the Commission on the NMHH’s compliance with independence requirements and proposes close monitoring of DSC nominations to ensure adherence to DSA principles.

Why does it matter?

The concerns about Hungary’s appointed authority for enforcing the EU DSA raise questions about the potential compromise of independence, risking biassed content moderation and challenging the protection of fundamental rights. The choice of the NMHH, associated with government propaganda, highlights broader issues regarding political influence and adherence to EU values, impacting the effective implementation of the DSA.