Europe vs. X: The Shutdown Threat that Shakes Digital Freedom of Expression
Maria Herrera Mellado 
Sandro Gozi, a Member of the European Parliament from Emmanuel Macron’s Renaissance party, has threatened the possible ban of X (formerly Twitter) in Europe if Elon Musk does not comply with digital services laws, sparking a broader debate on freedom of expression.
In a recent interview with the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, MEP Sandro Gozi issued a stern warning to Elon Musk. If the CEO of X fails to adhere to European regulations on digital services, the EU could shut down the platform in Europe. Gozi, who is Italian but was elected as an MEP in France, stated:
«If Elon Musk does not comply with European rules on digital services, the European Commission will ask continental operators to block X or, in the worst-case scenario, completely dismantle the platform within the Union’s territory.»
Gozi’s statements provoked a strong reaction in Italy, where Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini condemned his words. Salvini described the threat as «another disturbing attack on freedom of expression in Europe» and questioned how silencing the voice of millions could be acceptable in a democracy. «Is it acceptable to attack those who think differently?» he asked.
Gozi’s threat follows a series of warnings from the European Commission aimed at content management on digital platforms. Thierry Breton, Commissioner for the Internal Market, had already warned Musk that failing to moderate content that «could incite violence, hatred, or racism» would have legal consequences, particularly in the context of elections and the discourse that surrounds them.
Despite Breton’s stern warning, a European Commission spokesperson quickly clarified that the wording of the letter «was neither coordinated nor agreed upon» with the president or other commissioners, raising doubts about the Commission’s unified stance on Musk and X. This indicates a potential lack of consensus on how to proceed with platform regulation in the EU.
Reactions to these warnings from European officials have ignited an intense debate on freedom of expression and online content regulation. Many human rights advocates argue that excessive regulation could stifle innovation and free speech, potentially jeopardizing the future of digital platforms.
However, others contend that stricter regulations are necessary to prevent the spread of misinformation online. The tension between these perspectives highlights how polarized the debate over social media’s role in modern politics has become, illustrating the significant influence digital platforms have on public opinion.
Gozi’s warning comes at a time when social platforms are under increased scrutiny across Europe, especially concerning political communications. The possibility that the European Commission might take strong action against Musk suggests that the days of leniency toward lax content moderation practices may be numbered.
The pressure on Musk and X is not easing. The user community has expressed concern over the impact that stricter moderation policies might have on their ability to share ideas and communicate freely. Many are wondering how Musk will respond to these warnings and whether his decisions will affect users.
As Europe takes a firm stance against digital platforms, the saga of Musk and X underscores the need for a balance between regulation and freedom of expression. Musk’s response to the situation could set a precedent for other tech companies operating in the region.
European lawmakers seem determined to use their «toolbox» to enforce regulations, putting X at a crossroads. If Musk does not comply with these regulations, the platform could face severe actions that would impact not only its operations in Europe but also its global reputation, according to the Financial Times.
Here is a refined version of the text:
The European Commission issued a preliminary finding that X had violated the Digital Services Act (DSA), a comprehensive law designed to combat harmful online content. The Commission raised concerns about the platform’s blue checkmarks, which it believes may grant undue credibility to certain accounts. X disagrees with this assessment. An ongoing investigation is also examining how X handles disinformation and illegal content, with potential penalties including fines of up to 6% of the platform’s revenue.
The outcome of this situation could have a direct impact on how European citizens interact with digital platforms in their daily lives. With growing public concern over speech and misinformation, this conflict could shape the future of online content in the EU.
The EU’s warning to Musk puts X’s operations in Europe at risk, highlighting the delicate balance between regulation and freedom of expression in the digital age.
Original text by Lara Miravent.
María Herrera Mellado es una abogada de EE.UU. y licenciada en España. Doctora en Ciencias Jurídicas y Analista política. La Dra. Herrera es conocida por su amplia experiencia en análisis y consultas en el diseño de políticas públicas, propuestas de ley y gestión en relaciones internacionales.
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Su reconocimiento proviene de sus contribuciones al análisis y representación legal de diversas organizaciones, empresas e individuos que han visto abusados sus derechos humanos, su privacidad o en la inclusión de políticas efectivas fundamentalmente en el ámbito de la transparencia y la rendición de cuentas, así como la lucha contra la corrupción.
Su formación académica y experiencias profesionales la convierten en una voz respetada en el debate público y en el análisis de temas de actualidad sobre todo en los desafíos políticos y legales contemporáneos.
María Herrera Mellado is a U.S.-based attorney also licensed in Spain. She holds a PhD in Legal Sciences and is known as a media legal and policy analyst.
Dr. Herrera is recognized for her extensive experience in analyzing and consulting on public policy design, legislative proposals, and international relations management.
Her recognition stems from her contributions to the analysis and legal representation of various organizations, companies, and individuals whose human rights or privacy have been violated, or who have benefited from the inclusion of effective policies, primarily in the areas of transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption.
Her academic background and professional experience make her a respected voice in public debate and in the analysis of current issues, particularly in contemporary political and legal challenges.