Civil society coalition calls on EU to block Paramount-Warner Bros. merger

A coalition of organisations and individuals has called on the European Commission and the European Board for Media Services to oppose Paramount Skydance’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.

In a joint letter addressed to European Commission Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera and the European Board for Media Services, the signatories argue that the merger would reduce competition and consumer choice in Europe’s film and television markets.

The coalition includes ARTICLE 19, the European Federation of Journalists, the International Press Institute, the International Union of Cinemas and other media, civil society and creative-sector groups.

The letter states that further consolidation could reduce film production, weaken the negotiating position of cinemas and independent creators, and affect working conditions in the creative industries. The signatories also raise concerns about media pluralism and the editorial independence of television channels owned by the merged company.

Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery currently operate several European television and streaming services, including CNN International, Eurosport, Channel 5, HBO Max, Paramount+, Discovery+ and Pluto TV.

The coalition asks the European Commission to assess the deal under EU merger rules and the Foreign Subsidies Regulation. It also calls on the European Board for Media Services and relevant national authorities to examine its potential effects on media pluralism.

The claims and recommendations in the letter represent the position of its signatories.