Urgent Inquiry into TikTok’s Role
The European Commission has issued an urgent request for information from TikTok regarding allegations that the platform was exploited by a foreign state actor to influence the recent Romanian presidential elections. A series of declassified documents has raised alarms about the potential manipulation of the election outcomes, particularly surrounding Călin Georgescu’s unexpected success as a candidate, which sparked concerns about foreign interference.
Concerns Over Foreign Influence
Călin Georgescu, an independent candidate with controversial views, including Eurosceptic and pro-Russian sentiments, secured a spot in the election’s second round next to pro-European candidate Elena Lasconi. Henna Virkkunen, the Commission’s executive vice-president responsible for digital policy, emphasized rising fears of coordinated foreign operations aimed at the Romanian elections, attributing many of these tactics to TikTok’s widespread influence.
Deadline Imposed for Clarity
TikTok has 24 hours to respond to the European Commission’s request, which aligns with regulations outlined in the Digital Services Act. This follows an earlier inquiry last week and was spurred by intelligence reports unveiled by Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, which suggested that Georgescu’s ascent was not organic but rather a result of deliberate manipulation of TikTok’s algorithm by foreign actors.
Financial Backing and Suspicious Activity
The Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI) reported that a previously inactive network on TikTok had come to life two weeks before the elections. Coordinated through a Telegram channel, this network employed strategies typical of state intervention. Furthermore, evidence revealed that nearly one million euros funded the campaign backing Georgescu, with TikTok confirming a substantial financial contribution linked to promotional activities on the platform.
Growing Calls for Accountability
Following a forced retention order from Brussels, TikTok must preserve all relevant internal documents that might inform an investigation into its involvement in the Romanian elections. This scrutiny comes amidst dissatisfaction expressed by European Parliament members, who criticized TikTok’s representatives for failing to adequately address their concerns. Valérie Hayer, a Member of the European Parliament, responded strongly, suggesting potential sanctions, including a suspension or complete ban, should TikTok’s actions violate EU regulations. TikTok, facing increasing pressure, attempts to navigate the challenges of misinformation within its highly influential algorithm.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Politico.eu
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