Bosnia’s court annuls controversial peoplemeter regulation

The regulation, enacted by the Institute of Metrology, was deemed unlawful and misaligned with the Law on Metrology.

Court decision and industry impact

The plaintiffs argued that the regulation created legal uncertainty and potential financial harm to media outlets. The court agreed, stating, “This regulation unlawfully restricts and undermines the right to freely enjoy property and is contrary to public interest.”

The annulled regulation had favored SEE Media Research, a company linked to British firm Kantar Media. Critics, including anti-corruption bodies, raised concerns that it could serve the interests of entities close to SNSD, the ruling party in Republika Srpska.

Broader concerns

The regulation had sidelined Audience Measurement, the previous provider, creating conditions for SEE Media Research to monopolize TV ratings. Media professionals warned that this could lead to significant political control over media in BiH.

The Parliamentary Commission for Combating Corruption urged the Council of Ministers to amend the Law on Metrology to ensure transparent and objective media measurement practices aligned with European standards.

Uncertain future

While the annulment marks a step forward for media independence, the absence of a replacement framework leaves a gap in viewership measurement. This uncertainty may impact the financial operations of broadcasters until a new, transparent system is established.