Measures to combat disinformation regarding the COVID-19 epidemic

8.4.2020

Question for written answer  E-002178/2020
to the Commission
Rule 138
Maria Grapini (S&D)

The development of Internet, social media and new digital technologies have revolutionised our channels of information and communication and presented us with increasing challenges, such as unauthorised access to and use of data and the rapid spread of misleading content, especially during the current COVID-19 epidemic.

Sensitive subjects such as migration, climate change and health issues are frequently exploited to polarise public opinion.

Measures to counter disinformation must strike a balance between protecting EU democratic values on the once hand and upholding fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and media pluralism on the other.

During the current COVID-19 epidemic, what measures will the Commission take to combat the spread of disinformation that is in danger of undermining public health and safety and polarising public opinion?