EU Lawmakers Scrutinize TikTok’s Influence in Romanian Elections

The recent Romanian presidential election has spotlighted the influence of digital platforms, with TikTok at the center of controversy. The unexpected first-round victory of ultranationalist and pro-Russian candidate Călin Georgescu has raised concerns about the platform’s role in shaping political outcomes. EU lawmakers, led by Valérie Hayer of the Renew Europe group, are demanding accountability from TikTok’s CEO, urging them to testify before the European Parliament under the Digital Services Act (DSA).

Researchers have identified a significant TikTok campaign involving thousands of fake accounts that may have contributed to Georgescu’s rise. This has prompted Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu to call for an investigation into the campaign’s funding sources, emphasizing the need to “follow the money.” Despite the lack of evidence linking foreign state actors to the activity, the situation underscores the potential for digital platforms to facilitate radicalization and disinformation.

TikTok’s spokesperson, Paolo Ganino, refuted claims of the platform’s undue influence, highlighting that most candidates utilized TikTok and other digital platforms. TikTok has implemented measures such as an election center within the app to provide reliable information and partnered with local NGOs to combat disinformation. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains under scrutiny.

This incident is not the first time TikTok, owned by China’s Bytedance, has faced criticism in the EU. In 2023, French President Emmanuel Macron described TikTok as “deceptively innocent” and addictive, though the EU has yet to impose significant penalties on the platform. The Romanian election serves as a warning of the potential impact digital platforms can have on democratic processes across Europe.

Source: TikTok CEO summoned to European Parliament over role in shock Romania election