de flag go to the original language article
This article has been translated by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The news agency is not responsible for the content of the translated article. The original was published by dpa.

Warning about state elections in Germany: networks must comply with new EU rules

by AI | 31.Jul 2024 | Europe in brief AI

In September, a new state parliament will be elected in three East German states. The European Commission reminds of new rules for social networks like Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Ahead of the upcoming state elections in Germany, the EU Commission reminds of rules for social networks. Photo: Yui Mok/Press Association/dpa

Brussels – A few weeks before the state elections in the German federal states of Saxony, Thuringia, and Brandenburg, the EU Commission has urged social networks to comply with European rules against disinformation as well as foreign information manipulation and interference. The Commission will also monitor whether online platforms comply with the new Digital Services Act during the upcoming national, regional, and local elections, according to a report published in Brussels on control measures ahead of the European elections in June.

According to the Digital Services Act, large internet platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X are required in the EU to mitigate risks related to election processes while also preserving fundamental rights, including the right to free expression. One guideline stipulates that online platforms and search engines should prioritize displaying official information about election processes. Another mandates that content generated by artificial intelligence (AI) must be clearly labeled.

Control measures before the European elections: EU Commission draws positive conclusion

Before the European elections, the EU Commission launched proceedings against Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta and X over suspected breaches of EU law. Among other things, they are investigating whether the companies have complied with European rules in handling political advertising or combating information manipulation.

Regarding the control measures before the European elections in June, the EU Commission draws a positive conclusion. The current assessment is that there have been no major or systemic incidents that disrupted the European elections, according to the report. The number of incidents met expectations, and the preparations and coordinated responses paid off.

In Germany, state parliaments in Saxony and Thuringia will be newly elected on September 1, and in Brandenburg on September 22. Polls suggest that the right-wing populist AfD could become the strongest party in all three federal states. Difficult government formations are looming. (July 29)