Musk, often described as a controversial figure, has been heavily criticized for his divisive rhetoric, support for the far right and interference in the internal affairs of European countries.
Europe has risen against Elon Musk, the richest billionaire in the world and head of the social platform X (formerly Twitter), accused of behavior that is seen as a violation of democratic rules and public ethics. Musk, often described as a controversial figure, has been heavily criticized for his divisive rhetoric, support for the far right and interference in the internal affairs of European countries.
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION WARNS
The European Commission has reacted to Musk’s use of the X platform to interfere in democratic processes, stressing that the protection of free and fair elections is vital for European democracies. According to the Commission’s spokeswoman, the platform must comply with the requirements of the Digital Services Act, a new EU law that forces large platforms to analyze and minimize risks that could harm electoral processes and civic discourse.
A formal investigation into X has been opened since December 2024 for possible violations in this regard. Meanwhile, a planned interview between Musk and Alice Weidel, leader of Germany’s far-right AfD party, has added to concerns, as it could further influence the electoral processes in Germany.
REACTIONS FROM EUROPEAN LEADERS
European leaders are increasingly worried about Musk’s behavior. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, previously described as “a fat peasant” by Musk, said that “I am more concerned about his support for the AfD than about personal insults towards me”.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron has openly accused Musk of creating “a new reactionary international” and of interfering in foreign elections. Likewise, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated: “It is disturbing that a person with so much influence and financial resources interferes so directly in the internal affairs of other countries.”
CRASH WITH KEIR STARMER IN BRITAIN
In Britain, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been another target of Musk’s attacks. And so, after months of silence in the name of shaky special relations with the US, Starmer yesterday decided to hit back for the first time at Musk, who called him “the rapist of the UK” and “an accomplice in sexual abuse”. of Pakistani gangs in England’: ‘Enough lies and misinformation’, declared Starmer, ‘those spreading them are only interested in themselves, desperate for attention’.
Meanwhile, Musk’s rhetoric is creating real-life consequences. In Britain, a man was arrested for threatening Jess Phillips, an MP whom Musk had heavily criticized on his platform. These cases have brought back memories of previous tragedies, such as the murders of MPs Jo Cox and Sir David Amess by extremists.
Europe appears united in its stance against Musk, demanding that his platforms follow the rules and stop spreading divisive and dangerous rhetoric. As Musk’s rhetoric and actions continue to spark controversy, European leaders are calling for tougher measures to protect democracy and public safety from the effects of digital platforms.
