EU warns Musk over potential interference in German elections

The European Commission has expressed concern about Elon Musk, the owner of platform X, during the German elections. Henna Virkkunen, the Commissioner for Digital Policy, told Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung that the situation is being carefully monitored and that she would not hesitate to take further action if necessary.

Proceedings against platform X commenced at the end of 2023 due to suspicions of breaching the European Union’s Digital Services Act. This act prohibits the spread of disinformation and the endangerment of elections. Due to the complexity involved, Virkkunen acknowledged that resolving the proceedings before the Bundestag elections could be challenging.

The European Commission has launched proceedings against platform X to investigate potential breaches of the Digital Services Act (DSA). Concerns arose following Elon Musk’s acquisition of the portal, particularly regarding inadequate transparency and ineffective counteraction to disinformation. These issues involve a lack of efficient content moderation and the improper use of the portal’s interface.

The DSA regulation, vital for the digital single market, seeks to ensure oversight of service providers and protect freedom of expression. It requires large platforms like X to mitigate user risks. If the charges against Musk’s platform are proven, the company could incur a fine amounting to up to 6% of its global revenue.

The European Commission plans to collaborate closely with online platforms to prevent the promotion of radical content. A meeting between EC representatives, key platforms, including X, and German authorities is slated for 24 January 2023 at 11:00 GMT. The objective is to ensure that content is not overly promoted. The EU's efforts are aimed at protecting consumers and demanding greater accountability from internet platforms. The outcome of these investigations could significantly influence the future operations of major digital entities in Europe, potentially encouraging competitiveness and innovation in this sector.

American historian Timothy Snyder, in an article published in "Die Welt," has raised alarms about Elon Musk's influence on democracy. Snyder underscores that Musk, as one of the wealthiest individuals globally, wields considerable influence over international politics. According to Snyder, Musk and Putin are in regular contact, which could have adverse repercussions for the free world.

Elon Musk's growing influence in American politics is causing controversy. His support of Trump and involvement in governmental reforms exhibit how wealth can shape policy, often circumventing democratic control mechanisms. Supporters are concerned about deregulatory measures that align with his interests.

Snyder points out that Musk endorses extreme political movements, such as Brexit and the American "America First" initiative, which aim to undermine democratic institutions. The historian asserts that Musk and Putin's actions seek to dismantle the international order predicated on state sovereignty and human rights. Snyder suggests that the European Union, built on the rule of law, could curtail the power of the international oligarchy.

Musk does not hesitate to provoke in international politics. His humorous yet controversial remarks about the Canadian Prime Minister, seen as a provocation, illustrate how his influence transcends national boundaries and sparks discussions about leadership and diplomacy worldwide.

According to Snyder, Germany is a pivotal nation in Europe that could spearhead resistance against Musk and Putin's influences. The historian warns that if Germany fails to comprehend the magnitude of the threat, other countries might not have the opportunity to defend themselves adequately. Snyder emphasises that Musk's objective is not solely the destruction of states but also the erosion of human rights by championing individualism. As a powerful magnate, Musk poses a potential threat to sustainable political development.