Class Communication and Information Law

This course introduces students to the fundamental legal principles governing media activity and the exercise of freedom of expression in a democratic society. Adopting an accessible and progressive approach, the course seeks to demystify legal language and concepts, equipping students with essential tools to understand the rights, duties, and limits that frame the profession of communicator - whether as a journalist, advertiser, public relations professional, or digital content manager. Throughout the semester, topics will include freedom of expression and of the press, the right to information, fundamental and personality rights, the legal framework governing media outlets, liability in communication, as well as emerging issues linked to the digital environment. Students are expected to develop not only basic legal knowledge, but also a critical capacity to analyze the ethical and legal dilemmas involved.

Not applicable

Sources and Historical Development of Media Law Fundamental Rights in the Constitution - the 50th anniversary of the Portuguese Constitution, April 2, 1976-2026 Protection regimes. Conflicts between fundamental rights. Freedom of expression and information, and freedom of the press Sources of law. Media and Information Law in the Portuguese Constitution and in ordinary legislation Freedom of the Press Journalists' rights Freedom of enterprise and guarantees of independence and pluralism in the media Limits on freedom of the press Regulation of the Media Regulation in the digital and global context Justice and the Media Media interest in judicial matters Journalistic coverage of court proceedings Criminal proceedings

Lectures and participatory classes, presenting and discussing fundamental legal concepts and frameworks. Analysis of practical cases and case law, both national and European, related to freedom of expression, the media, and personality rights. Debates and simulations. Reading and discussion of legal texts and legal scholarship, encouraging critical thinking and legal argumentation. Group work and oral presentations on current topics (disinformation, digital regulation, relevant media cases)

Textos e materiais distribuídos pela docente. ASCENSÃO, José de Oliveira, O Direito - Introdução e Teoria Geral, Coimbra: Almedina, 13ª Edição, 2022;  SOUSA, Miguel Teixeira de, Introdução ao Direito, Coimbra: Almedina, Reimpressão 2023; AMORIM, Ana Clara Azevedo de, Manual de Direito da Publicidade, Petrony Editora, 2023.   Legislação: Constituição da República Portuguesa; Código da Publicidade; Regulamento Geral sobre a Proteção de Dados; Decreto-Lei das Práticas Comerciais Desleais.