EU Pressures Elon Musk’s X Over Algorithm Transparency Ahead Of German Election

The European Union is demanding Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, hand over key internal records about its algorithmic operations as scrutiny intensifies ahead of Germany’s upcoming election. The demand follows accusations that the platform is favoring content supportive of the populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

EU regulators announced that X must provide details of its recommendation system by February 15 as part of an ongoing probe under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The legislation grants the EU broad powers to oversee content moderation and combat what it labels as disinformation and illegal content.

Officials in Brussels argue that the platform’s algorithm could be amplifying narratives that challenge ruling parties, particularly in light of Musk’s recent interview with AfD co-leader Alice Weidel. The interview, streamed live on X, attracted significant attention as the party’s support continues to grow.

Henna Virkkunen, the EU’s digital commissioner, stated that the investigation aims to ensure compliance with European laws, warning that non-compliance could lead to substantial financial penalties. She also suggested that further regulatory measures could be imposed if X is found to be in violation of the DSA.

Musk has remained defiant, arguing that the EU’s investigation is politically motivated and intended to stifle open debate on issues like mass migration. He maintains that X is committed to transparency and free expression for users across Europe.

In addition to requesting algorithmic data, EU officials have instructed X to preserve internal records through the remainder of the year unless the investigation concludes earlier.