The Transatlantic Tech Divide: Why US-EU Digital Policy Clashes Are Here to Stay
Narratives framing “free speech” against the EU’s digital policy framework often trigger instinctive reactions in Europe: a defense of sovereignty and a willingness to seek alternatives. This response is typical when Europeans hear Americans critique EU digital rules.
A Matter of Perspective: Why the Disconnect?
European public opinion largely views US constitutional amendments with the same disinterest Americans hold for EU acts and regulations. This fundamental difference in perspective underscores the core of the issue.
The current global cooperation on regulating emerging technologies is characterized more by diplomatic conversations and bureaucratic processes than genuine collaboration, with previous attempts at dialogue largely failing. Both sides of the Atlantic are stuck in a cycle of reaction, where efforts to normalize discussions, like the EU-US Trade Agreement, are repeatedly derailed by those prioritizing distance over partnership.
Understanding the American Viewpoint
From the US perspective, social media platforms are designed for a global, uniform experience. Any regulation adopted within the EU inevitably alters the design and functionality of these platforms worldwide, impacting the American “right to exercise freedom of expression.”
The EU’s ambition to shape the global regulatory landscape through the “Brussels effect,” coupled with the US trade surplus in services with the EU, the ambiguity of some European digital rules, and technological competition with China, contribute to the US’s intense focus on European digital regulations.
Europe’s Right to Define Its Own Rules
Europe, however, has its own justifications. A market of 450 million consumers has the right to establish rules reflecting local principles, values, and needs. This doesn’t preclude questioning the status quo or labeling those who disagree with the current course as disloyal.
Change within Europe is challenging. The European Commission and a small group of policymakers advocating for regulatory reduction find themselves caught between conflicting forces. Even gradual attempts to simplify rules or eliminate overlaps often face hostility and personal attacks.
This resistance stems partly from political differences and partly from the European regulatory machine’s tendency to create industries – lawyers, consultants, and experts – that thrive on these regulations and fiercely defend them.
The Role of Rhetoric and Alliances
Some American public figures exacerbate the situation with openly anti-EU rhetoric, silencing moderate European voices and provoking reactive responses.
Looking Ahead: A Long-Term View
The past two years have been tough for moderates on both sides of the Atlantic. Discussions based on common interests and partnerships are overshadowed by inflammatory statements and negativity.
A long-term perspective is crucial. The EU-US technological partnership must be evaluated within the context of alliances like the one between China and Russia. Inflammatory statements should be taken with a grain of salt.
Neither Europe nor America operates in isolation. Both sides stand to lose from further delays in concrete dialogue. The global economy is interconnected, complete separation is unrealistic, and the rest of the world observes – and sometimes benefits from – transatlantic tensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the “Brussels effect”? The “Brussels effect” refers to the EU’s ability to shape global standards through its regulations, often leading companies to adopt EU standards worldwide.
- Why is the US so concerned with EU digital rules? The US is concerned that EU regulations will impact the design and functionality of global platforms, affecting freedom of expression.
- Is a complete separation between the US and EU digital policies likely? A complete separation is unrealistic due to the interconnectedness of the global economy.
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