The European Commission has demanded X (formerly Twitter) to provide detailed documentation about recent modifications to its recommendation algorithm, intensifying its investigation into the platform's influence on European politics.
The Commission's expanded probe, announced Friday, requires X to surrender internal documents about its recommendation system and preserve records related to potential future algorithmic changes. Brussels also seeks information about the platform's content moderation and amplification practices.
This regulatory action comes amid concerns from German politicians about X allegedly promoting far-right content ahead of Germany's February 23rd elections. Platform owner Elon Musk has publicly supported the nationalist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, stating it would "save Germany."
While the timing coincides with Musk's recent controversial interview with AfD co-leader Alice Weidel, Commission officials maintain the investigation is "completely independent of any political considerations or any specific events."
Digital Chief Henna Virkkunen emphasized the Commission's commitment to maintaining fair, safe, and democratic online spaces for European citizens through platform compliance with EU legislation.
X has not yet responded to the Commission's demands for documentation.
The investigation represents a growing scrutiny of social media platforms' algorithmic systems and their potential impact on democratic processes in Europe. The Commission's actions signal increased regulatory oversight of digital platforms operating within the EU, particularly concerning political content distribution and electoral integrity.