Communications Regulatory Authority (AGCOM): 2026 Annual Report on pluralism, accessibility, and child protection published

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The Communications Regulatory Authority (AGCOM) has published its 2026 Annual Report. The document outlines the Authority's efforts to protect fundamental human rights in Italy's digital, broadcast, and postal ecosystems. Certain aspects of the report deserve particular emphasis in this regard.

The protection of minors is a cornerstone of the Authority's work. During the year, it implemented strict measures against television broadcasters and online platforms for disseminating harmful content. The Authority sanctioned television programs for the presence of bullying, racism, and sexism, and obtained the removal of videos that violate human dignity on video-sharing platforms, applying the principles of the Digital Services Act (DSA). Furthermore, through the Patentino Digitale project, approximately 30,000 students have been trained in developing a critical approach to digital media, helping to counteract misinformation and cyberbullying.

In the struggle against hate speech, the Authority has applied Article 30 of Consolidated Law on Audiovisual and Media Services (TUSMA), sanctioning broadcasters for discriminatory messages or inciting violence against specific social groups. This commitment has also extended to accessibility: to guarantee the right to information for people with visual and hearing impairments, specific guidelines have been adopted requiring audiovisual media providers to implement subtitles, audio description, and Italian sign language.

Finally, the Authority has strengthened measures to ensure information pluralism and equal access during election and referendum campaigns, monitoring fair treatment by the media. The implementation of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) further consolidated editorial independence and transparency in the industry, promoting freedom of expression.

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freedom of expression Italy communication monitoring