BRUSSELS, Feb 26 (Reuters) - The European Union's top court ruled on Thursday that Hungary violated EU law by not renewing the license of independent broadcaster Klubradio. Klubradio was forced off
EU Court: Hungary Breached Law by Denying Broadcaster's Licence
BRUSSELS, Feb 26 (Reuters) - The European Union's top court ruled on Thursday that Hungary violated EU law by not renewing the licence of independent broadcaster Klubradio.
Klubradio was forced off the air in February 2021 after broadcasting for 19 years when Hungary's media authority did not renew its licence due to what it called a string of regulatory offences by the station.
Klubradio's Transition to Online Broadcasting
Since then, Klubradio has been operating only online. Its political and talk show guests often criticise government policies.
A Hungarian government spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
In July 2022, the European Commission decided to sue Hungary over its refusal to renew Klubradio's licence in another clash over values that risks damaging EU cohesion.
Hungary's Media Landscape Under Orban
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has transformed the country's media landscape during more than 15 years of nationalist rule. State media has come under full government control and several private outlets have either been shut or taken over by government-friendly owners during Orban's years in power.
Last year a media group, which is 50% owned by a pro-government business, bought a portfolio including Hungary's main tabloid newspaper only months before a key election scheduled for April where Orban is fighting to stay in power.
The EU and pro-democracy groups have long accused Orban's government of curbing media and other freedoms, which it denies.
Impact on Press Freedom Rankings
In 2025, Hungary ranked 68th on the World Press Freedom Index, down from 23rd in 2010 when Orban first became prime minister.
(Reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout and Anita Komuves; Editing by Inti Landauro and Kate Mayberry)
