Brussels – On Tuesday, representatives from TikTok will present before the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection of the European Parliament, as announced by MEP Dan Nica from the Social Democratic Party (PSD). This hearing comes amid concerns about the potential influence of the platform on the first round of Romania’s presidential elections.
“We must ensure that the digital environment is secure and free from manipulations that could compromise civic discourse and democratic processes. Following my remarks in the European Parliament yesterday, the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) has decided to hold an official hearing with TikTok representatives on Tuesday, December 3rd. The focus will be on ‘TikTok’s compliance with the Digital Services Directive (DSA) in light of recent events,’” Nica stated on his Facebook page.
He emphasized, “The Digital Services Directive requires major platforms to evaluate and manage systemic risks responsibly to safeguard electoral processes and civic discussions. This hearing represents a crucial step towards ensuring transparency and accountability, and it is an opportunity for us to seek definitive measures to uphold democracy in both Romania and Europe. It is imperative that democracy is never commodified!”
As the leader of the PSD delegation in the European Parliament, Nica also urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the College of Commissioners to address concerns about “foreign entities” that allegedly “interfered” in Romania’s presidential elections.
During a press conference in Brussels on Thursday, a spokesperson for the European Commission confirmed that a “round table” discussion will occur on Friday between Romanian officials and TikTok representatives, organized by the EU executive in light of the current situation in Romania.
The spokesperson added that other platforms have also been invited to this meeting, which is part of a “regular exercise” held before elections. “This practice aligns with the Digital Services Directive, as free and fair elections are fundamental to our democracies,” the spokesperson remarked.
Romania has requested the European Commission to initiate a formal investigation into TikTok, which is owned by a Chinese company, based on community social media regulations.
In a statement sent to AGERPRES on Thursday, TikTok representatives claimed that there has been no evidence found of any “covert influence operation” related to the recent Romanian presidential elections, nor any signs of foreign interference. (29.11.2024)
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