EBU calls for free-to-air broadcasting of major sporting events for the purpose of social cohesion

The EBU has called for the live broadcasting of sporting events "of major importance for society to be available to all on a free-to-air basis to underpin social cohesion," announced the body at its 75^th general assembly in Geneva (SUI) on 04/12/2015. "Offering free-to-air sports programmes for all is an intrinsic part of public service media’s role and a pillar of its relationship with audiences."

The EBU has adopted a strong stance on "the worrying trend whereby major sports' events are increasingly accessible behind pay-walls only, cutting off a major part of the potential audience."

For the body, regulatory support from the European Union is necessary to "halt this negative trend." The EBU will hope to take advantage of the audiovisual media services review, in 2016, so that member states of the European Union can update their lists of major events which must be broadcast for free.

• Member countries of the European Union can establish lists of sporting events considered of major importance to their country, and whose broadcast must be restricted to free TV channels.

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