EU Member States have adopted Council Conclusions advocating for greater media involvement in the planning and staging of major sports events, a move seen as a significant step forward for news organisations.
A key aspect of the Conclusions adopted on Tuesday 26 November is the promotion of early and sustained cooperation between event organisers, public authorities, and a wide range of stakeholders. These include sports organisations, media sectors, local communities, and businesses, with an emphasis on inclusivity and sustainability. The Council recommends conditioning state funding on a commitment to legacy outcomes, promoting a climate-neutral approach, and using events to pilot sustainable innovations in collaboration with universities and research centres.
The media’s role is particularly highlighted, recognising its ability to amplify the societal impact of sporting events and ensure transparency. News Media Coalition (NMC) members now have the opportunity to urge national governments to adopt these measures, advocating for media involvement in early-stage planning. By embedding journalism in the narrative, the EU aims to foster public trust, promote cultural and educational side events, and ensure that the legacy of major sporting events transcends the final whistle.
While the Conclusions are not legally binding, they align closely with the UK’s existing Gold Framework, developed with input from the NMC, which promotes collaboration between event organisers and newsrooms to ensure successful independent media coverage.
For further details, read the full EU Council Conclusions here.
