In a statement published on Wednesday, the European Commission recalled that freedom of expression is one of the foundations of the European legal order, as well as a common value of the democratic world. At the same time, she appealed to the US government for explanations on this matter and assured that she was in contact with the US administration to clarify the situation.
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“Our regulations are applied fairly”
“The European Union is an open and single market that operates based on democratic principles and international obligations,” the EC reminded in the document. The Commission stressed that EU digital rules, such as the Digital Services Act (DSA), aim to create a level playing field for all market players. “Our regulations are applied fairly and without discrimination,” it noted, adding that the EU would respond “quickly and decisively” to defend its regulatory sovereignty if necessary.
The Trump administration's decision, announced by the U.S. Department of State on Tuesday, affects five people, including Breton and the leaders of British and German non-governmental organizations. These people were accused of promoting EU digital regulations, which, according to the American website, are aimed at “imposing censorship” on American internet platforms. The US ministry described them as “radical activists”.
Macron also condemns
Thierry Breton, as a former EU commissioner, played a key role in developing the Digital Services Act, which regulates online platforms and search engines, especially in the fight against disinformation and ensuring the transparency of political advertising. Visa restrictions against him and others were severely criticized by French President Emmanuel Macron.
The dispute over digital regulations and their impact on global internet platforms has long been a subject of tension between the European Union and the United States. The decision to ban entry to European officials and activists appears to only deepen these differences.
