The European Union could “act quickly and firmly” against what it calls “unjustified” travel bans imposed by the US against five Europeans working on combating digital hatred and misinformation, a European Commission spokesperson stated.
European Leaders Condemn US Move as ‘Intimidation’
European leaders including the French president accused the US administration of “bullying and threats”, after the travel bans targeted individuals who have been at the heart of campaigns to introduce legislation governing US-based technology firms.
“For too long, European activists have led organised efforts to coerce US companies to suppress American viewpoints they oppose,” stated the US secretary of state online. “This government will no longer tolerate such actions of censorship beyond its borders.”
Broad Criticism From EU Nations
Germany, Spain, the UK and a chorus of EU officials supported the French president in condemning the move.
The bans were enacted this week on an ex-European commissioner involved in crafting the EU’s digital governance law, as well as four anti-disinformation campaigners, including 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, whereas European leaders contend the regulations are necessary to combat inflammatory language and disinformation.
This row threatens to become part of a much broader existing political and ideological clash involving the current US administration and Europe.
Other Developments Reported Today
In related judicial developments:
- A federal judge has blocked efforts to reduce federal homeland security funding to states which resist specific federal immigration rules. The official ruled the action was “a further instance” of linking federal aid to adherence to directives.
- Authorization was issued for the deployment of 350 national guard members to a major US city ahead of the new year, alongside an ongoing border security initiative.
- The nation of Palau has agreed to take in dozens of migrants from the US in exchange for additional aid, following concluding a formal agreement with US authorities.
Furthermore, a Democratic lawmaker has filed a lawsuit to demand the removal of a political figure’s name from a well-known cultural institution in the capital.
Analysts point out that recent statements regarding foreign petroleum resources reflect a wider ideology in some quarters of “economic expansionism”, leading to parallels with past foreign policy actions.
