France ready to ban Twitter if it avoids disinformation code

By Nur Asena Erturk

ANKARA (AA) – The French minister for digital transition and telecommunications on Monday said he is ready to ban Twitter if it pulls out of the voluntary code to fight disinformation.

Jean-Noel Barrot told the broadcaster Franceinfo the social media platform would be banned in the European Union if it violates the rules.

"Twitter plays an important role in the public debate, but we cannot take the risk of a social media network such as Twitter which lets itself be held hostage by supporters of disinformation, and that our public debate and democracy get affected," the minister explained.

Last week, EU Commissioner Thierry Breton announced: "Twitter leaves EU voluntary Code of Practice against disinformation. But obligations remain. You can run but you can’t hide. Beyond voluntary commitments, fighting disinformation will be legal obligation under #DSA as of August 25. Our teams will be ready for enforcement."