Portugal defends Lusa statutes after EU report calls concerns unfounded

Portugal’s government says the European Commission’s State‑of‑Law Report finds no basis for the criticism levelled at the new statutes of the state‑owned news agency Lusa. A spokesperson for the minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, told media that the report “notes having received reports of criticism of Lusa’s statutes” but “does not recognise any foundation for them nor issues any recommendation for amendment”. The same source added that the report “deems the alleged non‑conformities with European law as outdated and unfounded”. While the Commission acknowledges concerns from Lusa staff and the journalists’ union about the agency’s editorial independence, it also notes that the revised statutes improve safeguards against government interference. The Portuguese government therefore considers the EU findings to confirm the legality of the statutes adopted in January 2026.

The dispute centres on the creation of a new advisory council for Lusa, which critics argue could open the door to political influence. Officials maintain the changes limit government power over the agency’s governance.