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NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CONFIRMS THE AGENCY’S GENERAL INTEREST MISSION AND PLACES ITS FINANCING ON A NEW AND DYNAMIC BASIS

A PLENARY SESSION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY YESTERDAY ADOPTED A GOVERNMENT AMENDMENT TO DRAFT LEGISLATION ON THE SO-CALLED “WARSMANN” LAW CLARIFYING THE PUBLIC FUNDS RECEIVED BY THE AGENCY.

The amendment modifies article 13 of the 1957 statutes to allow for “the financial compensation by the State of the net costs of fulfilling its missions of general interest, as set out by articles 1 and 2 of this Act”.

It inscribed in the founding document of the Agency the idea of general interest missions and permits financial compensation by the State as part of this role.

This is a positive and dynamic step forward in clarifying the financial relationship between the State and AFP, showing the public authorities’ determination to deal with the legal action taken at the European Commission by the German news agency DAPD.

To be definitively adopted, the text must be examined by the Senate before going back to the National Assembly once again. Under the legislative timetable, it is due for adoption by the end of February. The contract of objectives and means between the State and AFP will then be amended to lay down the specific arrangements for financial compensation.

This arrangement will enhance the Agency’s capacity to develop in various markets, particularly in Europe.

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