EU Commission warns Twitter: “Free speech has its limits” | internet

In February, the Commission was already critical of Twitter because, as the only signatory to the European charter against disinformation, it submitted an incomplete activity report. The company gave little to no explanation about how it wants to counter influence by foreign actors and tackle disinformation. The signing of the Code of Practice on Disinformation was voluntary, but soon Twitter will fall under the obligations of the new European Digital Services Act (DSA), and the platform will be obliged to actively tackle disinformation and influence.

In a conversation with Belga, organized by the European Newsroom, EU Commissioner Jourova gave Twitter another shot across the bow on Wednesday. “I would like to explain to Mr. Musk our philosophy: we are the protectors of freedom of speech, that’s why we developed the code of practice, but that freedom has its limits.”

Jourova’s comment comes the day after the Commission announced that Twitter is one of the major online platforms that will have another four months to comply with the requirements of the Digital Services Act. “The code of practice is still voluntary, but once the DSA comes into force, the platforms will have to convince the regulator (de facto the Commission itself, ed.) That they are doing everything necessary to manage the risk of disinformation.”

If Twitter, or any other platform directly subject to Commission oversight, fails to comply with its obligations, the DSA allows for financial penalties, which can amount to 6% of global turnover. If a platform still refuses to fulfill its obligations, the Commission can ask a court in extremis to temporarily take the site offline.

“Compare it to driving on the highway,” Jourova said. “If you break the speed limit, you can get a fine. But your driver’s license can also be revoked. I’m not saying Twitter won’t comply with the law, but when asked what we will do if we don’t comply, I answer: the law to apply.”

There is still room for dialogue before the DSA obligations come into effect in four months’ time, Jourova said. But personally, she stressed, the “unregulated aggressive Russian propaganda” on Twitter makes her feel less and less comfortable on the platform.