Italy — AGCOM Audiovisual — the verified record, live

Italy's audiovisual regime is anchored in the Testo Unico dei servizi di media audiovisivi (Legislative Decree 208/2021), the consolidated code implementing the EU Audiovisual Media Services Directive, and is administered by AGCOM, the communications regulator. The framework covers linear broadcasters, on-demand services and video-sharing platforms with Italian jurisdiction, imposing rules on protection of minors, advertising and commercial communications, European works quotas and investment obligations, prominence of general-interest services, and accessibility. AGCOM enforces through regulations, orders and sanction proceedings, and also polices media pluralism, including assessments of positions in the integrated communications system (SIC) and scrutiny of significant transactions in the sector. Its remit has widened at the intersection with platform regulation: AGCOM is Italy's Digital Services Coordinator under the DSA and has applied national measures such as age verification requirements for pornographic services under the Caivano decree. For broadcasters, streamers and platforms touching the Italian market, AGCOM's resolutions and consultations are the operative layer where EU directives become enforceable obligations.

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as of 2026-08-31 · refreshed from scheduled releases

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Frequently asked

Who regulates audiovisual media services in Italy?

AGCOM, the Autorità per le Garanzie nelle Comunicazioni, an independent authority responsible for audiovisual and electronic communications. It implements the Testo Unico (Legislative Decree 208/2021), licenses and supervises broadcasters and on-demand providers, enforces content and advertising rules, oversees media pluralism, and additionally serves as Italy's Digital Services Coordinator under the EU Digital Services Act.

Which services fall under the Italian Testo Unico?

Linear television and radio broadcasters, on-demand audiovisual media services and video-sharing platforms under Italian jurisdiction, applying EU jurisdiction rules based on establishment. Obligations differ by service type and cover protection of minors, advertising limits and transparency, European works promotion and investment, accessibility, and short news reporting, with video-sharing platforms subject to appropriate-measures duties rather than editorial responsibility.

What sanctions can AGCOM impose in the audiovisual field?

AGCOM can order compliance and impose administrative fines calibrated by statute to the infringement, and in serious or repeated cases can suspend or revoke authorisations. Sanction proceedings follow contested investigation phases and are appealable to the Italian administrative courts. Fine levels vary considerably by provision, so exposure needs assessing against the specific articles of the Testo Unico engaged.

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