Debate Arises After US Legislative Move
In the wake of a unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives regarding TikTok, German lawmakers are contemplating a tougher stance on the popular Chinese-owned social media platform. The legislation in question could compel ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, to divest the app or face a complete prohibition from US app stores, pending further examination by the US Senate.
Concerns Raised Among German MPs
Several members of a parliamentary intelligence oversight committee in Germany have recently voiced apprehensions regarding TikTok. Roderich Kiesewetter, vice chairman of the Bundestag’s intelligence control committee, and a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), emphasized the need for a potential “general ban on TikTok” if stricter regulatory measures fail to be effectively implemented. Some politicians argue that TikTok poses a threat to democracy due to its perceived utility in China and Russia’s hybrid warfare strategies.
Calls for Regulation and Oversight
Amid discussions about potential bans, there are also calls for regulatory measures rather than outright prohibition. Jens Zimmerman, a member of Germany’s Social Democratic Party, suggested considering banning the app on federal devices, a measure already in place within EU institutions. Meanwhile, others, such as Ralf Stegner from the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and Konstantin von Notz from the Green Party, advocate for assessing the effectiveness of regulatory frameworks, particularly referring to the Digital Services Act (DSA) enacted earlier this year.
European Commission’s Involvement and Perspective
The European Commission has initiated an investigation into TikTok under the DSA, focusing on issues related to the protection of minors, advertising transparency, data access, and risk management of addictive design. While refraining from commenting on US legislative developments or German deliberations, the Commission clarified that decisions regarding IT security measures are within the purview of national authorities. It emphasized that the DSA can enforce temporary suspension or restriction of access to services for non-compliance.
Ongoing Surveillance and Measures
Despite ongoing investigations and debates, TikTok remains suspended on corporate devices as a precautionary measure. As discussions continue both in Europe and the US, the future of TikTok’s operations and regulatory oversight remains uncertain, with considerations extending beyond national borders.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Wall Street Journal
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