EU attack on pro-Kremlin ‘fake news’ takes a hit

Even as the UK nerve agent attack triggers claims and counter-claims between Moscow and western capitals, the EU’s in-house online anti-disinformation effort is wobbling. Its website was forced in February to retract three accusations of disinformation against Dutch news media, in a case that spawned outrage in the Netherlands. The bruising battle has emboldened critics who argue Brussels’ tactic is fundamentally wrong. 

“The approach taken by the EU on fake news is in breach of the freedom of expression and citizens’ right to be informed,” says Alberto Alemanno, a professor of EU law and regulation at HEC Paris, who has launched a complaint over Brussels’ fake news initiative to the bloc’s internal watchdog.