The European Commission has recently registered a citizen initiative for the creation of a European public social network. This project aims to provide an alternative to dominant platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, thereby allowing individuals to break free from the advertising economic model and privacy infringements. This text explores the challenges and characteristics of a social network funded by citizens that is transparent and independent of the GAFAM.
A European context in search of digital sovereignty
Over the years, Europe has increasingly expressed concerns about its dependence on American tech companies. The election of Donald Trump in the United States exacerbated this phenomenon, leading to growing calls for boycotting these digital giants. Examples like the unpredictable behavior of the former president have amplified worries, encouraging more and more Europeans to consider creating alternative solutions.
A citizen project at the service of users
The initiative for the European public social network was launched by Czech citizens and is now receiving support within the European Union. This project envisions a crowdfunding model, where each user contributes one euro per year. This funding system would avoid reliance on advertising and the resale of personal data, while ensuring a platform that truly serves its members.
A platform without advertising
Thanks to its funding mechanism, the public social network would be completely free of advertising and commercial partnerships. This means that users would not be subjected to an environment saturated with promotions and announcements. Instead, the focus would be on user experience and the importance of content that is informative and useful.
The transparency of the algorithm
One of the revolutions proposed by this project is the algorithm used to recommend content. Unlike the obscure and manipulative algorithms of traditional social networks, the one for the European social network will be transparent. Users will be able to choose how their news feed is presented, which could protect them from the effects of opinion bubbles and misinformation. Fake news would not be removed but accompanied by warnings, allowing users to exercise informed judgment.
An independent framework
The establishment of an independent oversight is essential to ensure the proper management of the platform. It would be monitored by bodies appointed by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union. Contributions from various actors, including businesses and universities, would be sought for ethical technical operation motivated by public interest.
The challenges of a project to be realized
Despite the enthusiasm generated by the initiative, its implementation remains a significant challenge. For the European Commission to consider the project, it is necessary to gather one million signatures from at least seven countries of the Union. This process must be completed within a limited timeframe, which requires significant mobilization from citizens for this citizen social network to take shape.
In summary, the idea of a European public social network represents an ambitious project that could change the game in the European digital landscape. A more neutral context, free from commercial interference, could offer citizens a space for free and secure expression, far from the machinations of the GAFAM.
