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Wednesday, Jan 15, 2025
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France Urges EU to Act on Musk's Political Influence as Tensions Rise
EU struggles to determine its response to Elon Musk's political commentary amid concerns over interference in European elections.
France has urged the European Union to take a firmer stance against what it views as political interference by Elon Musk, as the tech billionaire's comments on European politics have sparked widespread concern.
In recent weeks, Musk has made posts on his social media platform X that have been critical of European leaders and endorsed right-wing populist parties, particularly the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD), ahead of the country’s February election.
These comments have caused unease among European governments, especially those grappling with rising right-wing populism.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for the European Commission to enforce existing laws to protect the political integrity of EU member states.
Barrot warned that the Commission must either take strong action against Musk or consider devolving the responsibility to individual countries.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also criticized Musk, accusing him of undermining democracy.
The issue has put the EU in a difficult position, as it faces a complex balancing act between curbing foreign influence and respecting freedom of expression.
Musk's connections with U.S. politics, particularly his relationship with President-elect Donald Trump, complicate the EU's response.
There is uncertainty over whether Musk’s actions are independent or influenced by Trump, who takes office on January 20. Some EU officials are cautious, aware of the potential diplomatic tensions with the incoming U.S. administration.
The European Commission has maintained that its Digital Services Act (DSA), which regulates social media platforms in the EU, provides sufficient safeguards against harmful online activity.
However, it remains unclear whether this framework will be effective in addressing the specific risks posed by Musk’s political comments.
European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath, emphasized that Musk is free to express his opinions online within legal boundaries.
The Commission continues to investigate X's compliance with the DSA.
Musk’s controversial comments include calling German Chancellor Olaf Scholz an 'incompetent fool' and hosting a conversation with AfD leader Alice Wiedel.
European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Scholz, have publicly criticized Musk, with Scholz advising, 'Don’t feed the troll.' Meanwhile, the EU's regulatory framework is under scrutiny, with the DSA board set to meet on January 24 to discuss potential responses to Musk’s actions.
As tensions between the EU and Musk escalate, the bloc faces increasing pressure to assert its influence and address the challenges posed by digital platforms in the political sphere.
In recent weeks, Musk has made posts on his social media platform X that have been critical of European leaders and endorsed right-wing populist parties, particularly the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD), ahead of the country’s February election.
These comments have caused unease among European governments, especially those grappling with rising right-wing populism.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for the European Commission to enforce existing laws to protect the political integrity of EU member states.
Barrot warned that the Commission must either take strong action against Musk or consider devolving the responsibility to individual countries.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also criticized Musk, accusing him of undermining democracy.
The issue has put the EU in a difficult position, as it faces a complex balancing act between curbing foreign influence and respecting freedom of expression.
Musk's connections with U.S. politics, particularly his relationship with President-elect Donald Trump, complicate the EU's response.
There is uncertainty over whether Musk’s actions are independent or influenced by Trump, who takes office on January 20. Some EU officials are cautious, aware of the potential diplomatic tensions with the incoming U.S. administration.
The European Commission has maintained that its Digital Services Act (DSA), which regulates social media platforms in the EU, provides sufficient safeguards against harmful online activity.
However, it remains unclear whether this framework will be effective in addressing the specific risks posed by Musk’s political comments.
European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath, emphasized that Musk is free to express his opinions online within legal boundaries.
The Commission continues to investigate X's compliance with the DSA.
Musk’s controversial comments include calling German Chancellor Olaf Scholz an 'incompetent fool' and hosting a conversation with AfD leader Alice Wiedel.
European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Scholz, have publicly criticized Musk, with Scholz advising, 'Don’t feed the troll.' Meanwhile, the EU's regulatory framework is under scrutiny, with the DSA board set to meet on January 24 to discuss potential responses to Musk’s actions.
As tensions between the EU and Musk escalate, the bloc faces increasing pressure to assert its influence and address the challenges posed by digital platforms in the political sphere.
