Macron Slams Social Media Platforms: "Defense of Freedom of Expression is Nonsense"

Algorithmic Transparency and Democratic Risks French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized that the lack of clarity regarding how algorithms are constructed and how they direct users is unacceptable.
Macron stated, "Not knowing how algorithms are made, how they are tested, and where they will direct you can have very serious democratic consequences." "So-called Freedom" and Hate Speech Arguing that freedom of expression can only find its true meaning within a transparent system, Macron targeted the steering mechanisms of digital platforms.
He noted that some platforms use freedom of expression as a shield to avoid accountability.
"If no one knows how you are being directed within this so-called freedom, the defense of freedom of expression is complete nonsense.
It is even more serious if you are being directed from one instance of hate speech to another," Macron said.
Call for Public Order in the Digital Sphere In his speech, Macron underlined the necessity of establishing public order in digital spaces.
He called for a transparent process in the fight against disinformation and hate speech.
According to Macron, the auditability and transparency of algorithms constitute an indispensable element for the protection of democratic values.