Revision of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD)

Audiovisual services, be it traditional TV or online video on-demand platforms, are one of consumers’ main sources of entertainment and information. Millions of consumers all across the EU enjoy watching movies, series, documentaries, sports and TV programmes. Thanks to digital technology, consumers can enjoy the content of their choice at anytime,
anywhere and on different devices (TV, computers, tablets, smartphones, etc.). While for the younger generations, online media channels are increasingly substituting traditional television, TV still has a predominant spot in many homes.

No matter the type of service or platform consumers use to watch audiovisual content, they must be protected against excessive, hidden or inappropriate advertising. This is especially important when it comes to young vulnerable viewers, such as children.

BEUC calls for: 

• Stronger measures to minimise the exposure of children to advertising of unhealthy foods and beverages in all traditional and online audiovisual media services.
• Strict rules on commercial communications to avoid a negative impact on consumers’ viewing experience and prevent exposure to excessive and/or hidden advertising.