A range of private media outlets went off the air in Poland on Wednesday (10 February), running blank pages and slogans such as “this used to be your favourite programme,” in protest against a proposed media advertising tax they say threatens journalistic independence and diversity.
The blackout came a day after many publishing groups objected to the planned tax in an open letter to authorities and political leaders.
Poland’s Law and Justice government said the tax is meant to help raise funds for healthcare and culture, both hit by the coronavirus pandemic.
Channels from major private TVs in Poland broadcast a black screen with a white inscription “This was supposed to be your favourite program”. Private radios broadcast messages like “Ladies and gentlemen, you will not hear any normal programme today”.