In Europe, including Poland, disinformation has become a key problem that affects both communities and individuals. The Eurobarometer survey shows that false or misleading media information is a serious problem for 45% of EU citizens. In the face of this growing threat, the European Union must invest in high-quality journalism and fact-checking tools, appeals Robert Szustkowski, author of the European initiative to extend the Directive on the right to be forgotten to media entities as data collectors. This position is supported by the recent ruling of the Polish Supreme Administrative Court (NSA), which confirmed that the right to be forgotten, established by the GDPR, is an autonomous legal basis for requesting the deletion of data from digital publications.
The scale of the problem: public concern about fake content
According to the 2022 Eurobarometer survey, one in three EU citizens regularly encounters fake content. Globally, 60% of people express concerns about their ability to distinguish between true and false information online. “In response to the growing threat of disinformation, the EU must adopt legal measures to better protect citizens from fake news. Only quality and responsible journalism can fill the gap currently occupied by irresponsible social media platforms,” emphasizes Robert Szustkowski.
Using disinformation for political purposes
Disinformation has become a political tool capable of shaping public opinion both locally and globally. As Financial Times columnist Gillian Tett points out, leaders should support initiatives to combat online disinformation. This is not about suppressing free speech, but rather “putting in place safeguards against abuses of activism and supporting fact-checking social media platforms.”
European Commission officials support Szustkowski’s initiative
Robert Szustkowski, a philanthropist and social activist, has proposed an initiative to combat the disinformation crisis through systemic change. The initiative, supported by European Commission officials, aims to increase citizen protection and improve the EU’s ability to respond to digital disinformation. Recognizing the gaps in privacy and reputational protection, Szustkowski has initiated a dialogue with the European Commission on extending the right to be forgotten to media as data controllers. His proposal includes the creation of a register of violations of personal rights and the appointment of a Reader’s Rights Ombudsman who will help victims of fake news by providing a standardized form for filing complaints.