In an announcement from 27 May 2023, Twitter decided to leave the EU Code of Practice on Disinformation. Elon Musk once again made headlines by creating a new showdown between the blue bird and European institutions.
What are the stakes of this EU code?
This EU program, aimed at combating disinformation practices and online hate speech, was launched in 2018 and includes the vast majority of social networks, including Twitter, as well as NGOs and fact-checking organizations.
The main objective of this code lies in improving cooperation between social media entities and fact-checkers to counter the rise of disinformation and incorrect content.
In summary, this code of conduct encourages transparency and the promotion of quality content from reliable sources. Moreover, these practices will soon become a legal obligation under the “Digital Services Act” starting from 25th August.
What are the consequences of Twitter’s decision?
The consequences of this decision should not be taken lightly. Indeed, Twitter’s voluntary withdrawal from this program will have several significant repercussions, including:
- A potential loss of a popular communication platform
According to Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister Delegate for Digital Transition, in an interview with Franceinfo: “If Twitter does not comply with our rules, it will be banned [in case of recurrence] from the European Union.” The threat of heavy fines, corresponding to 6% of Twitter’s global turnover, is also issued, in addition to the possibility of Twitter being banned from the EU territory.
- An open door to the spread of false information
Today, Twitter plays a crucial role in information dissemination. Non-compliance with measures aimed at combating false information could lead to an increase in content that does not meet the standards set by the EU and information regulatory bodies.
Online hate speech, also part of the scope of this code, could also increase on Twitter following this withdrawal.
- Bad news for the digital economy
Numerous economic actors are linked to this platform, benefiting from its visibility and reputation. Businesses and individuals who have built a brand image on the platform and rely on it may potentially suffer economically from this delicate situation.
This latest showdown between Elon Musk and European institutions promises to have significant consequences, judging by the statements made by the various parties involved in this affair, which could continue to unfold in the coming days.
Sources :
https://www.euronews.com/next/2023/05/29/bye-bye-birdie-eu-bids-farewell-to-twitter-as-company-pulls-out-of-code-to-fight-disinform
https://www.francetvinfo.fr/internet/reseaux-sociaux/twitter/twitter-se-retire-du-code-europeen-de-bonnes-pratiques-contre-la-desinformation-un-nouveau-bras-de-fer-entre-la-plateforme-et-l-ue_5854946.html
https://www.francebleu.fr/infos/societe/twitter-quitte-le-code-de-l-ue-contre-la-desinformation-le-reseau-social-pourrait-etre-banni-2050756
https://www.tf1info.fr/international/lutte-contre-la-desinformation-twitter-quitte-le-code-des-bonnes-pratiques-de-l-ue-2258432.html
