The European Union could “act quickly and firmly” in response to what it deems “unjustified” travel bans issued by the United States against five European individuals working on fighting online hate and disinformation, a European Commission spokesperson stated.
EU Officials Condemn US Move as ‘Intimidation’
European leaders including Emmanuel Macron charged Washington of “bullying and threats”, after the visa restrictions targeted figures who have been central to campaigns to introduce legislation governing American tech companies.
“For too long, European activists have led organised efforts to pressure American platforms to suppress US perspectives they disagree with,” wrote the US secretary of state in a social media post. “The current administration will not stand for these egregious acts of censorship beyond its borders.”
Widespread Condemnation Across Europe
Germany, Spain, the UK and a chorus of EU officials joined the French president in condemning the move.
The bans were enacted this week against an ex-European commissioner involved in crafting the bloc’s Digital Services Act (DSA), along with four activists fighting false information, from two in Germany and two in the UK.
An Escalating Conflict Over Regulation
This European legislation is seen by US officials as a form of censorship, while European leaders argue the rules are necessary to combat hate speech and falsehoods.
This disagreement risks becoming a facet of a far wider ongoing political and ideological clash involving the current US administration and Europe.
Other Developments Reported Today
In related judicial news:
- A federal judge has blocked attempts to reduce security grants to states that do not comply with certain immigration enforcement policies. The official ruled the case was “another example” of linking government assistance to policy compliance.
- Approval was given for the deployment of 350 national guard members to a major US city ahead of the holiday period, coinciding with an ongoing border security initiative.
- The nation of Palau will consent to accept dozens of individuals from the US in return for additional aid, after signing a memorandum of understanding with US authorities.
Additionally, a congressional representative has filed a lawsuit seeking the stripping of a political figure’s name from a well-known cultural institution in the capital.
Analysts point out that comments regarding foreign petroleum resources reflect a wider ideology in some quarters of “resource imperialism”, leading to parallels with past foreign policy actions.
