TikTok Faces EU Lawmakers’ Scrutiny Over Romanian Elections
TikTok defended its role in the Romanian elections, stating it removed several networks attempting to influence voter perception. Despite implementing measures to ensure election integrity, EU lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with TikTok’s responses, highlighting concerns over the platform’s influence and management of political content amid allegations of electoral manipulation.
TikTok officials recently defended the platform’s measures to ensure election integrity during a hearing with European Union lawmakers. Following allegations of electoral interference, TikTok removed multiple networks allegedly attempting to manipulate Romania’s elections. Executives revealed that they had disrupted two groups targeting Romanian voters, including one supporting the little-known independent candidate, Calin Georgescu, who garnered substantial attention on TikTok, surpassing 5.8 million likes and 527,000 followers. While TikTok implemented localized strategies, EU lawmakers expressed concerns about whether their actions were timely and effective, emphasizing the need for more concrete responses from TikTok about its role in the elections.
The recent Romanian elections have become contentious, especially after the unexpected rise of Calin Georgescu, an independent candidate linked to significant allegations of electoral violations and Russian intervention. TikTok has emerged as a significant platform for political engagement in Romania, particularly among younger voters. Its proactive measures, including deploying content moderators and collaborating with local authorities, have raised questions about the effectiveness of these strategies amidst claims of manipulated online narratives supporting certain candidates.
TikTok faces ongoing scrutiny regarding its interventions in the electoral process in Romania. Despite efforts to curb disinformation and manage election-related content, EU lawmakers demand more definitive actions and clarity from the platform. The company’s ability to navigate this political landscape will remain crucial as Romania progresses forward in its electoral processes.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
