The European Parliament has taken another step towards controlling the flow of information online. It has decided to set up a new committee dedicated to fighting foreign interference and disinformation.
The initiative, called the European Democracy Shield, is intended to protect democratic processes but has raised significant concerns about censorship and potential fraud. The creation of the committee is in line with the European Commission’s political agenda for 2024-2029 and is expected to start its work next year.
The resolution received broad support in the plenary session in Strasbourg, with 441 members voting in favour, 178 against and 34 abstentions.
Although the decision is presented as a measure to protect democracy, critics have long questioned whether such broad powers risk stifling dissent under the guise of fighting disinformation.
The committee’s mandate includes examining online platforms, AI-generated content and so-called “hybrid” threats – broad categories that could potentially include legitimate political expression or alternative narratives.
The ad hoc committee on the European Democracy Shield will consist of 33 members and will have a 12-month term. Its composition, determined by the political groupings, is expected to be announced at the end of January. The committee’s duties include reviewing existing laws for potential loopholes that could be exploited and recommending reforms. But sceptics warn that this approach could lead to an increased regulatory burden on digital platforms, raising questions about freedom of expression and transparency in decision-making.
Source: https://reclaimthenet.org/european-parliament-democracy-shield-committee-foreign-interference-disinformation
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