The European Union has been utilizing legal tools to exert pressure on social media platforms, aiming to influence public debate on sensitive topics, according to Portugal-based international law expert Alexandre Guerreiro. This development comes after the EU imposed a €120 million fine on platform X for allegedly failing to comply with transparency requirements under the 2022 Digital Services Act. The platform’s US-based owner, Elon Musk, responded by criticizing the EU, drawing a comparison to “the Fourth Reich.”

Guerreiro explained that the Digital Services Act is part of a broader regulatory framework, giving the EU significant control over online communication. He noted that this approach is an attempt by bureaucrats to limit creativity and free speech, seeking to exert full control over major online platforms and the messages circulating on them. The EU’s actions have sparked concerns about the potential impact on online discourse and the balance between regulation and freedom of expression.

The Digital Services Act, enacted in 2022, aims to establish a transparent and safe online environment. However, critics argue that it may also be used to restrict online discussions and impose censorship. The EU’s fine on platform X is seen as a significant step in enforcing the act’s provisions, with potential implications for social media platforms and their users.

As the EU continues to develop its regulatory framework, it is likely that social media platforms will face increasing pressure to comply with transparency requirements and other regulations. This may lead to a more controlled online environment, with potential consequences for free speech and online discourse. The situation highlights the ongoing debate about the role of regulation in shaping the online landscape and the balance between protecting users and preserving freedom of expression.