Spain: National Commission for Markets and Competition closes consultation on draft Code of Conduct for the age rating of audiovisual programs and content

On 28 November 2025, the National Commission for Markets and Competition closes the consultation on the draft Code of Conduct for the age rating of audiovisual programs and content. It replaces the previous self-regulation code from 2004 and its subsequent updates, creating a unified framework for age ratings, content descriptors, and viewer protection, particularly for minors. The draft Code applies to signatory audiovisual service providers, including television and video-on-demand services, users of special relevance, and aggregators, and allows for further adherence by other providers under agreed terms. The draft Code defines an age-based classification system ranging from programs especially recommended for children to adult-only content, with visual signals and descriptors covering violence, sexual content, fear, drugs, discrimination, imitable behaviour, and language. It specifies how these ratings and descriptors are to be displayed across linear and on-demand services, including content from users of special relevance. The draft Code also includes provisions for commercial communications and voluntary pre-broadcast consultation to prevent regulatory breaches. Furthermore, the draft code establishes a structured user complaint mechanism, detailing admissibility, submission procedures, and processing via the electronic platform managed by the Secretariat.