Audiovisual media regulators from Montenegro and North Macedonia concluded a two-day study visit to Dublin to exchange on European best practices on media regulation, online safety, and the supervision of global digital platforms. The study-visit combined direct exchanges with Irish counterparts about European digital platform operations, reflecting the growing importance of cross-border co-operation in today’s digital media environment.

The visit kicked off with a meeting with members of the Coimisiún na Meán, the Irish media regulatory authority, who discussed with participants a variety of topics relevant for the dynamic process of transposition of EU regulation. They explored key European frameworks governing audiovisual media services, digital platforms, and media freedom, alongside their practical implementation at the domestic level. Particular attention was given to the evolving responsibilities of regulators as they address both traditional broadcasting and online media services. More concretely the meeting examined the structure and capacity of regulatory authorities, legal obligations in the digital sphere as well as updates to rules governing traditional media

Oversight of major online platforms, the regulation of video-sharing platforms, the use of advanced tools for social media monitoring and data extraction, as well as the role of media literacy in strengthening online safety was in the focus. Media regulators from Montenegro and North Macedonia also inquired on public funding models for journalism and audiovisual production, highlighting strategies to support media serving the public interest.

The second day of the visit was dedicated to more practical exhanges, including a visit to the TikTok Transparency and Accountability Centre in Dublin. During this visit, participants gained direct insight into how a major global platform approaches regulatory compliance and user protection. Discussions focused on content moderation systems and enforcement processes, and public complaint handling mechanisms. They discussed measures to protect children and vulnerable users, responses to hate speech and disinformation.

The two-day programme highlighted the importance of dialogue and co-operation among regulators and with digital platforms. By combining legal, technical, and operational perspectives, the visit supports the ongoing development of effective and harmonised media regulation across Europe.

The Study Visit was organised within the framework of the actions   “Protection of freedom of expression and of the media in Montenegro” and “Protecting freedom of expression and of the media in North Macedonia” under the joint European Union and the Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”.