POLAND

COUNTRY CHAPTER

2025 RANKINGS

In an era dominated by rapid digital transformation and heightened scrutiny over media independence, Poland's media landscape stands at a pivotal crossroads. The year 2024 marked a watershed moment, defined by the burgeoning OTT platforms and steadfast resilience of traditional television. The media sector showcased dynamic adaptability to global digital trends and consumer shifts.

On the other hand, the market observed significant challenges and contentious regulatory actions threatening to reshape Poland's media freedom fundamentally. The contentious imposition of the National Broadcasting Council’s record-breaking fine on TVN, following a controversial report about Karol Wojtyła (before becoming the Pope John Paul II), reignited national debates over journalistic ethics, media accountability, and freedom of expression. This controversy has snowballed into broader questions of political interference, given the unprecedented speed with which state agencies moved to enforce the financial penalty.

Further complicating the scene is the heated parliamentary motion seeking to hold the Chairman of the National Broadcasting Council accountable before the Tribunal of State for alleged abuses of power, delays in licensing processes, and withholding crucial subscription funds. The outcome of these proceedings may set critical precedents for media regulation and oversight, influencing the extent to which political influences may govern independent journalism and broadcasting.

Amid these turbulent waters, the Polish Ministry of Culture and National Heritage has embarked on comprehensive efforts to amend the Broadcasting Act, proposing significant changes intended to enhance media pluralism, transparency, and independence from political bias. As stakeholders from broadcasters to streaming giants brace for regulatory reforms, Poland's media market faces the daunting task of balancing innovation and growth with stringent compliance requirements and political neutrality.

Our expanded Chapter Article delves deeply into these complex intersections, exploring the critical trends, regulatory challenges, and legislative shifts that are poised to determine the future landscape of Poland’s media industry, the autonomy of its journalism and, ultimately, the very foundations of its democratic discourse.

Written by Paulina Maslak-Stepnikowska

Counsel

WKB Lawyers