Janice R. Andrews
Elon Musk has received a severe warning from Thierry Breton, the European Union’s Commissioner for Internal Market, in a noteworthy move in the continuing tug-of-war between Big Tech and European authorities. Breton’s tweet was sent out only hours before Musk and former US President Donald Trump are set to speak on the much awaited social media network X, formerly known as Twitter. The EU’s steadfast commitment to implementing the Digital Services Act (DSA), a regulation designed to regulate digital platforms in order to safeguard users and maintain public safety, is demonstrated by this warning.
A New Era of Accountability: The DSA
The Digital Services Act is a significant change in the way digital platforms function in the European Union. It went into effect in 2022. It requires extremely big internet platforms, such as X, to take proactive steps to prevent unlawful material and lessen threats to public safety. Additionally, platforms are required by law to exhibit a greater standard of due diligence, especially in circumstances when an increase in the platform’s risk profile is anticipated. In his letter to Musk, Breton specifically mentioned this situation, citing the impending Trump interview as a possible flashpoint.
The non-discriminatory execution of DSA responsibilities to all X users, including Musk, was highlighted in Breton’s letter. Musk has over 190 million followers on the network, and because of its worldwide reach, his behaviour and content are closely monitored. Breton stated, “DSA obligations apply to the moderation of the entire user community and content of X without exceptions or discrimination.” He further reminded Musk that these responsibilities had to be met “in line with the risk-based approach of the DSA,” especially in situations when an increase in risk is anticipated.
X’s DSA Breach: A Betrayal of Trust?
The EU issued its most recent warning in response to a decision made last month by EU tech authorities, who found that X had violated the DSA. Blue checkmarks, a feature that was formerly meant to confirm the legitimacy of accounts but has now become contentious under Musk’s control, have been accused of misleading users by the platform. Musk has threatened legal action against the regulatory body in an attempt to refute the EU’s conclusions, which X has rejected.
After purchasing Twitter in late 2022, one of Musk’s first significant moves was the introduction of sponsored blue checkmarks. Numerous users expressed their disapproval of this action, claiming that it damaged the platform’s trust. The EU’s decision that this method was illegal under the DSA complicates Musk’s already tense relationship with European authorities.
Trump’s Visit Back to X: A New Phase?
There is a purpose to Breton’s letter’s timeliness. After being absent from X for over a year, Donald Trump returned to the platform earlier on Monday. Trump celebrated his comeback with a video clip in which he restated his conviction that the four criminal cases he is presently facing are being brought about for political reasons. Several additional posts were swiftly followed by this one, indicating that Trump could be preparing for an increased level of activity on X in the upcoming months.
Trump’s @realDonaldTrump account was quickly restored when Musk seized power on the network. After the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, it was suspended. This incident sparked widespread demands for social media companies to take more aggressive measures against content that may encourage violence. Reactions to Musk’s decision to reinstate Trump’s account were divided; some saw it as a win for free expression, while others saw it as a risky measure that may encourage divisive discourse.
Consequences for X and Musk
Breton’s caution to Musk covers more ground than just the impending Trump interview; it also addresses the larger duties associated with running a platform with the kind of influence that X has. Regardless of the political or financial power of its owners, digital platforms must prioritise user safety and abide by regulatory norms, as demonstrated by the EU’s implementation of the DSA.
This puts Musk in a position where careful balance is required. On the one hand, he has made a name for himself as an advocate for free speech, frequently taking aim at what he considers to be excessive government and regulatory action. Conversely, noncompliance with EU legislation may lead to severe consequences, such as heavy fines and possible limitations on X’s activities within the EU.
As the Musk-Trump interview draws near, all eyes will be on X’s handling of the event and whether it complies with the strict guidelines established by the DSA. Any mistake may have far-reaching effects for the conversation about free speech, regulation, and the influence of digital platforms on public opinion, as well as on Musk and his platform.
The current dispute between Elon Musk and EU regulators serves as a reminder of the difficulties in striking a balance in the digital era between public safety and free expression. The stakes are stronger than ever as Musk is ready to interview Donald Trump on X. Reminding us that responsibility in the Big Tech world is non-negotiable is the EU’s demand on adherence to the Digital Services Act. The resolution of this conflict may establish a standard for how digital platforms function in the face of heightened regulatory scrutiny, not only in Europe but globally as well.
