These concerns arise from an interpretation of a decree that defines the competencies of both the CDJ and CSA.

The CDJ's concerns also encompass broader issues such as protecting minors, discrimination, human dignity, commercial communication, pluralism, and pre-electoral program broadcasting.

This criticism was particularly highlighted in the context of the CSA's investigation into RTL TVI's program "Les 48h des bourgmestres," which aired during the communal elections.

However, the CDJ reviewed the RTL TVI program and found it compliant with journalistic ethics, asserting its precedence in decision-making as per a decree from April 30, 2009.

The CSA clarified that while it respects the CDJ's exclusive role in addressing journalistic ethics, it maintains authority in specific cases outlined by audiovisual media service regulations.

The CDJ criticized the CSA for overstepping its authority by attempting to influence news content, which they argue undermines media independence.

The CSA claimed that the program lacked balance and representation of all political parties, leading to accusations of infringing on media freedom.

On January 22, 2025, the Conseil de déontologie journalistique (CDJ) raised serious concerns regarding the Conseil supérieur de l’audiovisuel (CSA), accusing it of interfering with journalistic freedom.

According to the CDJ, once it issues an opinion on a program, the CSA should refrain from further actions regarding that program.

The CDJ is particularly worried that such CSA interventions during elections could set a dangerous precedent that threatens the right to information.

In response to these interferences, the CDJ vowed to take all necessary measures to protect journalistic independence.

The CDJ expressed alarm over the CSA's repeated actions and its refusal to share complaints, arguing that this undermines the self-regulation of journalism as established by the Federation Wallonie-Bruxelles decree.