New Regulations Target Social Media Influencers for Truthful Communication
On Tuesday, the Council of Ministers took a significant step in regulating the dissemination of information on social media by approving an amendment to the right to rectification law. This law will now hold users of special relevance—specifically, those with over 100,000 followers on a single platform or more than 200,000 across multiple platforms—accountable for correcting any false information or news they share.
Platforms like Twitter (now X), Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram will be included under this new regulation. By implementing this change, these influential users will be held to the same standards and obligations as traditional media outlets concerning the rectification of misinformation.
Félix Bolaños, the Minister of the Presidency, Justice, and Relations with the Courts, highlighted that the government's goal is to enhance the quality of public discourse. This initiative is part of a broader plan for democratic regeneration announced by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in the spring, which came in light of his wife being declared a suspect by Judge Peinado.
The amendment aims to facilitate the right to rectification for individuals affected by false or misleading information spread through social media channels. This change is expected to contribute to a more responsible social media environment where influencers recognize their impact and obligation to correct inaccuracies in their communication.
As misinformation continues to be a pressing issue, the new regulation seeks to empower users and promote a more truthful dialogue in the public sphere. The implications of this law could shape the dynamics of information sharing on social media, pushing influencers to prioritize accuracy and accountability.
Related Sources: