PP & VOX Block Reform Targeting ‘Fake Journalists

Spanish Congress Moves too Curb⁢ “Pseudojournalists” and Protect Parliamentary Work

The Spanish Congress ‍is advancing a ⁢reform of its internal regulations aimed at addressing disruptive ‍behavior by accredited journalists and⁢ protecting the work ⁤of both lawmakers and legitimate media. The proposed changes ⁣seek to‍ regulate the‍ renewal of press credentials and introduce a sanctioning regime for those who‍ hinder parliamentary proceedings or harass other journalists – a group frequently⁢ enough referred to as “pseudoperiodistas.”

The move follows a series of incidents⁢ involving accredited journalists from digital media ⁣outlets who have confronted politicians and other reporters. While proponents argue the reform is necessary to ensure a respectful ‍and productive habitat for reporting, opposition parties contend existing ⁢rules already provide sufficient authority⁣ to maintain order.

The reform,spearheaded by the PSOE (Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party) along with ERC,Junts,Bildu,PNV,BNG,and the Canarian Coalition,responds to calls from journalist ⁢associations seeking measures to prevent “unacceptable behaviors” in the press gallery. Supporters ⁤emphasize the goal isn’t to restrict legitimate journalism, but to address the actions of individuals they characterize as “ultra-right activists” posing as journalists to disrupt press conferences and parliamentary activities.

Currently, the 1982 regulations grant the Chamber table the authority to issue press accreditations. The ⁢proposed reform focuses on regulating the renewal of these credentials, establishing clear requirements for⁢ continued access. A new⁣ Parliamentary Communication Advisory council, comprised of representatives from⁣ each parliamentary group and journalist associations, will be established to recommend sanctions,⁣ though the final decision will rest with the ⁣Chamber table.

New Regulations and Potential Sanctions

Under the proposed rules, accredited journalists will be required to adhere to “rules of parliamentary courtesy” and guidelines ⁢set by⁤ the Chamber⁤ table. ⁣ Recording without proper accreditation will be prohibited, and parliamentary groups will be allowed ⁣to ⁢designate a coordinator for informative meetings.

Sanctions ⁢for non-compliance could range from⁢ temporary suspension of‍ credentials to permanent revocation.

The‍ proposal ⁢was⁢ considered by the Congress plenary on⁣ May 20th,with proponents requesting ⁤an expedited approval⁢ process. They have already secured the necessary 178 signatures from deputies to shorten parliamentary⁣ deadlines and aim to have the reform in effect by the start of the next parliamentary session this summer.Opposition and Alternative Proposals

The PP (Peopel’s Party) and Vox have presented amendments opposing the reform, arguing the Congress ⁤presidency already possesses the necessary “police powers” to maintain order within parliamentary premises. The PP’s alternative proposal would eliminate all provisions related to press⁣ accreditation‍ regulation, asserting the presidency can ⁤already “adopt as many measures [it] considers appropriate,” ⁢including expulsion and legal action against those disrupting public order.

Despite the ⁣opposition, ⁤the reform is expected to pass, with⁤ sufficient support ⁣already secured. Parliamentary groups⁢ are now preparing to submit partial ⁢amendments, with a vote on the final text anticipated soon. The outcome will likely ⁤reshape the landscape of press⁤ access and behavior within the Spanish Congress.