Meta's Mark Zuckerberg announces the end of fact-checking on Facebook and Instagram in the US, prompting Germany and the EU to reinforce stricter content regulations.

 A Policy Shift with Global Implications
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s decision to end fact-checking on Facebook and Instagram in the United States has sent shockwaves across Europe. The announcement, made in a video message, signals a significant shift in Meta’s content moderation strategy, raising concerns in Germany and the European Union, where stricter content regulation remains a priority.

Zuckerberg’s move, justified as a response to what he described as "errors and censorship" during past elections, has ignited debate over the balance between free speech and the fight against disinformation.

Fact-Checking Ends in the US: Zuckerberg’s Justification
In a five-minute video, Zuckerberg declared that Meta would overhaul its content moderation policies, phasing out third-party fact-checkers on its platforms in the US. "We’ve reached a point where there was a lot of error and a lot of censorship. The last election was a cultural turning point for free speech," he stated.

Fact-checkers, often associated with respected news agencies like AFP and Reuters, had reviewed content in 26 languages on Meta’s platforms. However, Zuckerberg criticized their role, claiming they were politically biased and eroded public trust rather than enhancing it.

This decision appears to align with criticism from prominent US Republicans, including Elon Musk, a close ally of Donald Trump, who have long accused social media platforms of stifling conservative voices.

Europe Stands Firm: The Digital Services Act in Action
While Meta’s new policy applies to the US, the European Union and Germany remain committed to regulating online content. The EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), implemented in May 2024, imposes strict requirements on major platforms to combat hate speech and illegal content.

Under the DSA, platforms must rely on external experts to ensure compliance, with fines of up to 6% of global annual turnover for violations. German Minister for Digital Affairs, Volker Wissing, emphasized the importance of verified information, stating, "We will not allow our democracy to be challenged."

Mixed Reactions in Germany
The announcement has sparked diverse reactions among German political and digital experts. SPD Secretary General Matthias Miersch warned of potential criminal offenses if Meta fails to address fake news, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s spokesperson expressed confidence in the EU Commission’s regulatory framework.

On the other hand, FDP MP Wolfgang Kubicki welcomed the move as "good news for free speech," highlighting the ongoing debate over the role of platforms in moderating content.

Experts Voice Concern Over Meta’s New Direction
Markus Beckedahl, founder of "Netzpolitik.org," described Zuckerberg’s decision as a "180-degree turn," suggesting it aligns with Republican demands for unrestricted free speech. He criticized the move as a concession to Donald Trump and his supporters.

Zuckerberg had previously vowed to prevent hate and incitement on Meta’s platforms, but this latest policy change marks a stark departure from that stance.

 A Divided Path for Content Moderation
While Meta’s policy shift signals a new approach to free speech in the US, Europe remains steadfast in its commitment to controlling harmful online content. As Germany and the EU reinforce their regulatory frameworks, the global debate over the responsibilities of social media platforms in combating disinformation continues to intensify.