In a poll conducted by Kantar for TVN and TVN24, respondents were asked questions relating to media freedom and the so-called anti-TVN bill. According to the majority of those asked (77 percent), media freedom as one of the fundamental values of democracy. 72 percent also think that media should watch politicians' moves.
Authors of a bill, put forward by a group of PiS MPs on July 7, argue that it aims at "clarifying regulations enabling the National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) to effectively counteract the possibility of radio and television broadcasters to be taken over by any entities from outside the European Union, including entities from countries posing an immediate threat to state security".
Commentators and experts agree that the planned changes are meant to target TVN. TVN24 channel is still waiting for the National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) to extend its licence. The current one expires on September 26. The station filed for an extension in February 2020.
The KRRiT claims the problem lies in the "ownership situation" of the TVN Group. The company said in a statement that in 2015 the council had approved entry of American capital into TVN.
The respondents in the Kantar poll for TVN and TVN24 were asked if they agreed or disagreed with the following statements:
"Media freedom is a fundamental value of democracy"
I agree ("probably yes" or "definitely yes") - 77%
I disagree ("probably not" or "definitely not") - 11%
Don't know - 12%
"The role of the media is to watch the government and politicians' moves"
I agree ("probably yes" or "definitely yes") - 72%
I disagree ("probably not" or "definitely not") - 14%
Don't know - 14%
"Presence of TVN and TVN24 is a necessary element of media pluralism in Poland"
I agree ("probably yes" or "definitely yes") - 64%
I disagree ("probably not" or "definitely not") - 18%
Don't know - 18%
Źródło: TVN24 News in English, TVN24