TikTok recently announced its plan to combat misinformation and misleading AI-generated content ahead of the 2024 European Parliament elections. In an effort to address the spread of online misinformation, TikTok will be launching an in-app Election Center for its European users.
The Election Center will consist of local language centers for each of the 27 EU countries, allowing viewers to separate fact from fiction. The tool is expected to be available in March, ahead of the elections in early June, and aims to provide European users with accurate and trustworthy information about the electoral process. Videos related to the elections will be clearly marked and will guide users to the relevant center.
This initiative builds upon TikTok’s efforts in previous years, when similar centers were established for national elections in five European countries. TikTok also emphasized its commitment to countering misinformation, fact-checking, and investing in media literacy. In addition, the platform plans to issue covert influence operations reports to increase transparency and limit deceptive actors who may try to manipulate public opinion.
To address the issue of AI-generated content spreading misinformation, TikTok requires creators to label any realistic AI-generated content. The platform has also recently launched a tool to assist users in this labeling process. These measures align with the steps taken by Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, which introduced labels for AI-generated content shared on their platforms.
These efforts come as the European Commission rolls out the new Digital Services Act (DSA) to mitigate online risks ahead of the elections. E.U. Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton highlighted the responsibility of social media platforms in combatting misinformation and foreign interference during the electoral period.
TikTok’s Election Center is a significant step towards combating misinformation and promoting accurate information during the European Parliament elections. By partnering with local electoral commissions and civil society organizations, TikTok aims to create a safe and reliable space for its community. With the rise of AI-generated content, the labeling requirement for creators and the tool provided by TikTok assist in ensuring transparency and accountability.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for social media platforms to take proactive measures to safeguard the integrity of democratic processes. TikTok’s initiatives serve as a reminder of the importance of combatting misinformation and promoting responsible online behavior. By offering an in-app Election Center and investing in fact-checking and media literacy, TikTok aims to empower its users to make informed decisions and contribute to a more informed electorate.
