Twitter has announced its withdrawal from the European Union’s voluntary disinformation code, a framework designed to unite major social media platforms in tackling misinformation. EU Industry Commissioner Thierry Breton confirmed this development in a tweet on Saturday, emphasizing that the company’s obligations under the code are still in place.
Introduced in 2018, the EU’s code of practice on disinformation includes nearly 36 signatories, featuring major players such as Meta, Google, Twitter, Microsoft, and TikTok, alongside smaller platforms, advertisers, fact-checkers, and non-governmental organizations.
Twitter leaves EU voluntary Code of Practice against disinformation.
But obligations remain. You can run but you can’t hide.
Beyond voluntary commitments, fighting disinformation will be legal obligation under #DSA as of August 25.
Our teams will be ready for enforcement.
— Thierry Breton (@ThierryBreton) May 26, 2023
The code was collaboratively drafted by industry stakeholders and includes over three dozen pledges aimed at enhancing cooperation with fact-checkers and curbing the promotion of entities that spread disinformation.
Breton reiterated the EU’s commitment to combating false information, stating that after August 25, this fight will transition from voluntary to a legal obligation under the Digital Services Act (DSA). He warned that relevant teams would be prepared to enforce compliance.
Since Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter six months ago, content moderation has seen a notable relaxation, arguably providing a platform for known purveyors of misinformation.
A European Commission official expressed skepticism regarding Musk’s commitment to the disinformation code, suggesting that if he does not take it seriously, he should consider stepping down from his role.
