Yazılar

German Activists Sue X Over Lack of Election Influence Data

/in /tarafından

Two activist groups have filed a lawsuit against Elon Musk’s social media platform X, accusing it of violating European law by refusing to provide necessary data to track disinformation ahead of Germany’s national election on February 23. The Society for Civil Rights (GFF) and Democracy Reporting International (DRI) claim that X is not offering systematic access to important information, such as the reach of posts, likes, and shares, which other platforms have made available for monitoring.

According to Michael Meyer-Resende of DRI, the groups have the right to access this data under the European Union’s Digital Services Act. Despite requests, X has not granted access to the data needed for tracking public debates on the platform.

The lawsuit comes amid heightened concerns over online disinformation ahead of elections in Europe, especially after the controversial presidential election in Romania in 2024, which was allegedly influenced by a Russian-driven social media campaign, though Moscow denied any involvement.

The situation is further complicated by Musk’s endorsement of Germany’s far-right political party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), and his continued influence over the platform. Since taking control of Twitter (now X), Musk has limited access to data for researchers, charging for what was previously free, raising concerns about transparency and potential misuse of the platform in democratic processes.

 

Spain’s Deputy PM Yolanda Diaz Withdraws from Elon Musk’s X Platform

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Spanish Deputy Prime Minister and Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz announced her decision to leave Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, citing concerns over the platform’s algorithmic influence and Musk’s recent behavior during President Donald Trump’s inauguration-related events.

Key Points:

  • Diaz’s Decision: Yolanda Diaz explained her withdrawal from X, emphasizing her refusal to be part of a platform that promotes xenophobic ideas, undermines human rights, and supports the far-right.
  • Musk’s Actions: Diaz’s move followed criticism of Elon Musk’s behavior at an event tied to Trump’s inauguration, where Musk’s arm gesture was controversially compared to a Nazi salute. While Musk dismissed the allegations, the Anti-Defamation League described the gesture as an awkward moment of enthusiasm.
  • Broader Political Reactions: Other members of Diaz’s left-wing Sumar party also plan to cease using X for personal and political posts. The Spanish government clarified that Diaz’s decision was personal, with each minister free to choose their preferred digital platforms.
  • European Shift: Diaz’s departure follows similar moves from German ministries and UK universities, which have distanced themselves from X amid growing concerns over the platform’s direction under Musk’s ownership.

German Government Considers Leaving X Over Algorithm Concerns, Spokesperson Reveals

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The German government is actively evaluating the possibility of abandoning its presence on X, formerly known as Twitter, citing concerns over the platform’s algorithms. A government spokesperson confirmed on Friday that this issue is under continuous review, especially following a live broadcast on the platform featuring Elon Musk and Alice Weidel, the leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

The spokesperson explained that X and other social media platforms have algorithms that promote content in ways that are not conducive to “calm, objective, and balanced discourse,” but instead tend to encourage agitation and polarization. Although the government has not made a final decision, it has chosen to remain on the platform for the time being due to its ability to reach a broad audience.

Musk’s growing support for far-right and anti-establishment parties, particularly in the lead-up to Germany’s February 23 election, has sparked controversy. German institutions, including unions and universities, have already distanced themselves from X in protest. During a live session on Thursday, Musk reiterated his endorsement of the AfD, a far-right party that is considered extremist by German security services, which has led to increasing tensions in Berlin.

However, the government spokesperson clarified that concerns over the platform are not directly related to Musk’s political involvement in Germany. The spokesperson emphasized that it is up to the European Commission in Brussels to determine whether X is complying with EU laws, especially during election periods.