Finnish media ethics council chair granted power to issue rulings alone

The chair of Finland’s Council for Mass Media (JSN) will now have the authority to issue binding rulings independently in certain cases, following a rule change approved by the council’s supporting association, Yle reports.

The amendment, passed on 17 March, allows the chair to rule against media outlets in minor or clear-cut cases where existing precedent supports a violation. Previously, the chair could only dismiss complaints without a full council review.

JSN stated the change aims to streamline operations amid a backlog of cases. However, the council retains final decision-making power and can overturn the chair’s rulings. Both complainants and media outlets may still request a review.