STRASBOURG: Longtime German leader Angela Merkel called on Europe Tuesday to stay the course in its push to regulate social media and artificial intelligence, warning that the "foundations of democracy" were at stake. The former chancellor issued the appeal as she accepted an award at the European Parliament, in a speech urging the bloc to live up to the "promises" made to its citizens on protecting peace, prosperity, and democratic values.
Merkel's Warning on Digital Regulation
"Continue along the path of regulating social media," she urged. "Continue along the path of regulating artificial intelligence." Merkel, who served as Germany's chancellor from 2005 to 2021, emphasized that accountability for spreading information is crucial. "To believe that responsibility for spreading information is no longer necessary—that one will not be held accountable for lies—will undermine the foundations of democracy," she warned.
The 27-country European Union (EU) already has some of the world's strictest rules regulating the digital space. Currently, the bloc is considering a potential ban on social media for individuals under a certain age, reflecting its ongoing commitment to digital governance.
European Order of Merit Award
Merkel is one of 20 laureates of the newly-created European Order of Merit, which was established in March to recognize "significant contributions to European integration and unity, democracy and values." The formal award ceremony took place on Tuesday in Strasbourg, with 13 laureates in attendance.
Among the attendees was Poland's former leader Lech Walesa and Moldovan President Maia Sandu. Sandu's address was interrupted by a heckler yelling "dictator" from the visitor's gallery, but the incident triggered a standing ovation in support of the President. "This distinction belongs to the Moldovan people," Sandu said in accepting her award. "Voting for Europe again and again in face of Russian threats and blackmail, that is merit."
She appealed to EU institutions and member states: "Reward this merit. Let Moldova move forward in its European journey." Moldova has set itself the goal of joining the bloc by 2028.
Other laureates who were not present include Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and Irish rock band U2.
