STANDARDS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION IN THE FIELD OF FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND MEDIA FREEDOM IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Abstract

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of European standards of freedom of expression and media freedom in the context of the digital transformation of the public sphere. It reveals the political and institutional significance of media freedom as a key prerequisite for the functioning of democratic regimes, the safeguarding of political pluralism, and effective public oversight of governmental activities. The study demonstrates that the digitalization of political communication, the growing role of online platforms, and the concentration of informational power necessitate a rethinking of classical approaches to the protection of freedom of expression and require an adequate response at the political level. The article examines the main sources shaping European standards of freedom of expression, including the European Convention on Human Rights, the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, the case law of the European Court of Human Rights, as well as recent EU regulatory instruments such as the Digital Services Act, the Digital Markets Act, and the European Media Freedom Act. It is argued that these instruments contribute to the formation of a supranational model for regulating the digital public sphere aimed at achieving a balance between freedom of expression, public interests, and democratic stability. Particular attention is paid to the significance of European standards of freedom of expression and media freedom for Ukraine in the context of European integration and countering information threats. The article concludes that further adaptation of national media legislation to European Union standards is necessary, taking into account contemporary political and security challenges.