The legislation aims to safeguard cultural diversity within the framework of a proposed transatlantic trade and investment partnership. It stresses the importance of excluding audiovisual services from trade negotiations to protect the European Union’s cultural heritage. This measure ensures that legislative control over the audiovisual sector remains within European and national jurisdiction, particularly in the digital age.
Key points include the affirmation of technological neutrality, indicating that the format of content delivery should not affect its cultural value. The text emphasises that including information and communication technologies in trade agreements should not undermine cultural diversity, especially regarding audiovisual and cinematographic content. It argues that explicit protections for cultural diversity must be strengthened to ensure effective safeguarding.
The legislation calls for the exclusion of defence and security public procurement from the negotiation mandate to preserve the sovereignty of the European defence industry. It also highlights the need for consensus in decision-making to prevent any member state from vetoing the agreement. This approach aims to ensure the highest legal security for the EU negotiator, thereby facilitating a balanced and fair transatlantic partnership.
In summary, the legislation underscores the necessity of maintaining cultural and legislative sovereignty in the face of international trade agreements. It advocates for explicit exclusions and stringent protections to uphold cultural diversity and heritage within the European Union.
