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Parliamentary question - E-005315/2018Parliamentary question
E-005315/2018

Fake news during election periods

Question for written answer E-005315-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Sergio Gutiérrez Prieto (S&D)

The continuing rise of social media as a source of information is accelerating the dissemination of fake news. At present, we are the citizens who most heavily use these platforms to stay up to date with the latest news.

This results in a real threat to voters and democratic institutions, bearing in mind the May 2019 elections. Because of concerns about meddling and the dissemination of this fake news in election campaigns, we must equip ourselves with all the tools available in order to protect ourselves against this huge amount of distorted information.

We urgently need to take measures at European level to overcome this growing challenge. The EU needs a response, as there is an imminent risk that next year’s elections will be attacked.

A response to this problem involves a dilemma in relation to the freedom of expression. We must therefore reflect on the way that we deal with this problem, to ensure that it is ethical and proportionate.

Does the Commission intend to review the legislative means for limiting the dissemination and propagation of fake news, with a view to the elections which will take place next year in particular (but not only limited to them)?

Last updated: 6 November 2018
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