Press Release
The Open Internet Project expresses its outrage at Elon Musk’s insult of Thierry Breton
August 14, 2024
In a context where regulating the GAFAM is crucial to preserving the integrity of democratic processes, such attitudes are not only irresponsible but also represent a threat to global political stability.
The Open Internet Project expresses its deep concern over the recent actions of Elon Musk, head of the platform X, who chose to respond insultingly to a European political authority after receiving an official letter from Thierry Breton, a member of the European Commission.
In a context where regulating the GAFAM (Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon, and Microsoft) is crucial to preserving the integrity of democratic processes, such attitudes are not only irresponsible but also represent a threat to global political stability. The letter from the European Commission reminded Mr. Musk of his obligations under the Digital Services Act (DSA), emphasizing the need for X to implement effective measures to prevent the spread of harmful content, especially during major global events.
Elon Musk’s response, which was caricatured and insulting, is a regrettable demonstration of a lack of respect, or even a certain contempt, that leaders of large companies may have for European institutions, whose representatives are, after all, the guardians of consumer interests. This also raises concerns about X’s genuine commitment to combating disinformation, online hate, and other forms of illegal content.
Moreover, Elon Musk’s recent actions highlight the crucial issue of the impartiality of major digital platforms. By choosing to engage in such a confrontation with a European institution, Elon Musk demonstrates how these platforms can influence public debate and impact democratic processes. Digital platforms are not neutral; their algorithms and editorial choices have a direct impact on the information that users access. When the leaders of these platforms choose to take sides in political debates, they jeopardize the plurality of voices and the quality of public discourse.
The Open Internet Project calls for strengthened regulation and increased oversight by the relevant authorities to ensure that digital platforms, particularly those led by such influential personalities, fully comply with existing laws and do not compromise global political security and stability.
Elon Musk has not only shown disrespect towards European institutions, but he has also demonstrated a worrying disregard for the responsibility that comes with leading such influential platforms as X. Such behavior from a tech leader threatens not only the rule of law but also global political stability. It is imperative that these platforms adhere to legal standards and obligations to protect our democracies, just as they must comply to ensure fair competition.“Quentin Adam, President of the OIP”
We support and commend the initiative of Mr. Thierry Breton and all European institutions working against the unfair practices of American giants, who continually challenge European regulations.
The Open Internet Project reaffirms its commitment to a responsible, transparent, and democratic values-respecting internet, and calls on tech leaders to exercise greater responsibility in their public communications.
Contacts:
Léonidas Kalogeropoulos, Managing Director : +33607315126 – l.k@openinternetproject.eu
Lucie Lebret, Project Manager :+33757503010 – lucie.lebret@mediation-arguments.com
