In the face of growing criticism from MEPs, European Commission tech chief Henna Virkkunen defended the executive’s enforcement of online platform rules, stressing the need for a strong response to alleged breaches of the Digital Services Act (DSA). The call comes as lawmakers urge the Commission to take swift action against tech CEOs, including X’s billionaire owner Elon Musk, for alleged foreign interference on social media platforms.
Urgent Action Required
MEPs from across the political spectrum have expressed concerns about Musk’s suspected interference in the Romanian and German elections. The Commission has asked X to provide information on its recommender systems, and Virkkunen pledged to take decisive action, stating, “Strong and timely enforcement is required, as well as decisions that stand in court.” The tech chief emphasized that the Commission will not shy away from taking tough stances against non-compliant tech platforms.
Boosting DSA Enforcement
Virkkunen announced plans to increase the number of staff working on the DSA from 50 to 200, highlighting the Commission’s commitment to enforcing the regulation. The DSA, which came into force in 2023, requires the largest online platforms in the EU to mitigate risks related to their content and ensure a high level of transparency. Lawmakers are pushing for swift action, citing the need to protect European democracies from the risks associated with social media.
Criticism from Across the Spectrum
While some MEPs called for stronger enforcement, others cautioned against overreaction. ECR group Co-President Nicola Procaccini argued that demands for stricter enforcement of the DSA were excessive and driven by a desire to curb the influence of mainstream progressive thought on social media. The debate highlights the complex challenges facing the EU in regulating the tech industry.
A Plan to Combat Disinformation
In addition to enforcing the DSA, the Commission is working on a Democracy Shield plan to combat foreign disinformation and domestic threats. Virkkunen announced that the Commission will launch a public consultation on the plan soon, aiming to foster collaboration and cooperation among EU member states to protect European democracies from the risks associated with social media.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Guardian
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