European Media Associations Warn: Digital Omnibus Threatens Industry Viability

The European Publishers Council (EPC), alongside six other leading European media associations, has issued a joint statement expressing grave concerns over the Digital Omnibus proposal. Specifically targeting Articles 88a and 88b of the GDPR, the groups argue that these provisions will increase complexity and undermine the financial sustainability of independent media.  

​The proposed "cookie provisions" and restrictions on the ability to request consent would directly hinder publishers' digital revenues and their capacity to innovate in a highly competitive environment. The industry maintains that Article 88a(4) introduces severe, disproportionate limitations that prevent media organizations from effectively engaging with their audiences.  

​The signatory organisations are calling on co-legislators to delete Art. 88a(4) and Art. 88b and to amend the audience measurement derogation to align with the principles of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). 

​Rather than maintaining strict consent requirements while simultaneously preventing companies from effectively requesting it, the EU must reassess this reliance on consent. The goal should be a balanced solution that addresses "consent fatigue" while preserving both user choice and the long-term viability of European digital business models.  

You can read the full statement here. 

2026 05 06 Media Joint Statement Digital Omnibus.pdf

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