The mistake cost the station thousands of zlotys. There is a verdict for TVP
The Warsaw District Court upheld a fine against Polish Television for airing a beer advertisement during prohibited hours.
The Warsaw District Court has confirmed a decision by the National Broadcasting Council to impose a fine of 35,000 zlotys on Polish Television (TVP) for airing a beer advertisement at an inappropriate time. The incident occurred on August 28, 2024, when the advertisement was broadcast shortly after 6:00 AM, violating regulations that prohibit beer ads from being shown between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM. This ruling emphasizes the strict enforcement of advertising regulations, particularly concerning alcoholic beverages.
Dr. Agnieszka Glapiak, chairwoman of the National Broadcasting Council, highlighted the importance of adhering to these regulations to protect consumers, especially minors. She stated that the laws governing the airing of commercial messages, including beer advertisements, must be consistently enforced. The ruling underscores the government's commitment to regulating media practices to safeguard public health and moral standards.
Ultimately, the court stated that the mere act of broadcasting the advertisement outside the sanctioned hours constitutes a legal violation. The content of the advertisement itself and the audience reach are irrelevant; the timing of its airing is the crucial factor. This decision may have implications for how broadcasters manage their advertising schedules, prompting them to ensure compliance with existing laws to avoid similar penalties in the future.