Influencers face EU control: Unfavourable changes ahead
The Council of the European Union has approved new conclusions. It wants member states to prevent influencers from spreading fake news.
We are spending more and more time online, which means that those creating content on social media are having an increasing influence on how we see and understand the world.
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On 14 May, the Council of the European Union approved new conclusions on ways to support influencers as online content creators in the EU. Given the large number of posts published every day on social networks that influence users' opinions, the European Union wants to support content creators with digital literacy (media literacy) courses.
The Council of the EU wants to train influencers
The EU Council has proposed improving online creators' awareness of information sources to prevent the spread of fake news (even unintentionally). The council noted that while influencers have the technological skills to create content, it is important for them to use media responsibly. This includes understanding the potential negative impact of sharing disinformation, as well as the risks of hate speech, cyberbullying, and other illegal online activities.
The Council of the EU encourages Member States to work with influencers and the organisations representing them to ensure that they are aware of their role in the media ecosystem and the legislation that applies to them. Furthermore, the EU Council encourages the European Commission to explore ways to support influencers at the EU level, including via a coherent policy approach focusing on media literacy and responsible online behaviour. The Council recommends using existing EU funds and programmes on media education.
Are influencers complying with the law?
The Council of the European Union has also expressed growing concern about the rise of ‘kidfluencers’ – influencers under the age of 18. In this context, the EU Council emphasises the crucial role of parents, advocating for their support and training on their responsibilities to safeguard young content creators.
The EU Council's new proposals complement the European Commission's drive to better regulate the role of influencers. A recent study prepared by the EC and the EU Member States shows that around 72% of social media content did not comply with the rules on clear indication of advertising in posts.
Source: eunews.it
