The code of practice on disinformation has garnered the support of nearly thirty major signatories, which include Meta, Google, Twitter, Microsoft, and TikTok.
Twitter has announced its departure from the EU’s voluntary code of practice on disinformation, according to a tweet from EU Industry Commissioner Thierry Breton on Saturday. However, despite the withdrawal, Twitter will still be bound by its obligations. The code, established in 2018, includes nearly three dozen signatories, including major social platforms such as Meta, Google, Twitter, Microsoft, and TikTok. It encompasses not only larger platforms but also smaller ones, advertisers, fact-checkers, and non-governmental organizations.
Written by industry players themselves, the code consists of more than thirty pledges aimed at fostering better cooperation with fact-checkers and preventing the promotion of disinformation by any actors. Commissioner Breton emphasized that while platforms may choose to leave voluntarily, fighting disinformation will become a legal obligation under the Digital Services Act (DSA) starting from August 25. He warned that enforcement measures would be in place, demonstrating the EU’s commitment to tackling disinformation.
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Following billionaire Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter six months ago, the platform’s moderation of problematic content has reportedly become more relaxed, leading to increased visibility for individuals known for spreading disinformation.
A European Commission official, in response to the situation, expressed the view that if Elon Musk does not take the code seriously, it would be preferable for him to withdraw from it. The European Commission is determined to address disinformation effectively and considers the code a crucial tool in achieving this goal.
