In a sharp critique, European Commission Vice President Vera Jourova has labeled Emmanuel Macron's France as "very arrogant." Jourova, who also serves as the European Commissioner for

Values and Transparency, directed her criticism at France while discussing the European Media Freedom Act, a legislation aimed at safeguarding journalists and ensuring media independence against political pressures within the EU.

The European Media Freedom Act, which recently gained approval from the European Parliament, is seen as a media rulebook designed to protect journalists from undue influence.

Jourova specifically highlighted the case of journalist Ariane Lavrilleux, who was arrested for reporting on leaked documents. She expressed concern over the "very weak protection" of journalists in France, and noted that France initially opposed the proposed media law, describing it as a threat to its existing media system. She characterized this stance as "very, very arrogant."

Speaking more broadly about the European Media Freedom Act, Jourova stated that it would serve as a significant warning to EU member states.

Turning her attention to Hungary, Jourova criticized Viktor Orban's Fidesz party for effectively gaining control over 80 percent of the country's media, a situation attributed to "political and economic" maneuvering according to the latest World Press Freedom index by Reporters Without Borders. Jourova emphasized the importance of supporting media transparently rather than through hidden, corrupt means. The new legislation will impose transparency and independence obligations on media outlets and may pose challenges for Prime Minister Orban's government.

Jourova concluded by expressing concern over the monopolization of information in Hungary, which she deemed undesirable, and stated that measures would be taken to address such situations over time.