Spain Advances Stricter Social Media, AI Rules

Spain's government is advancing stricter regulations on social media platforms and artificial intelligence systems despite opposition from major technology companies, Digital Transformation Minister Oscar Lopez told Reuters on May 13 in Madrid.

Lopez emphasized that public safety and rights must take precedence over corporate profits. "The profit of four tech companies cannot come at the expense of the rights of millions," he said. The proposed rules would require social media firms to disclose how their recommendation algorithms function and impose tighter controls on high-risk AI systems. Additional measures include a ban on social media access for teenagers, with a related bill progressing through parliament since February, and legislation making platform executives personally liable for hate speech on their networks.

The initiative addresses rising concerns over online harms, particularly affecting minors. Lopez linked the regulations to increases in cyberbullying, sexual harassment, and AI-generated deepfakes targeting children, especially girls, which he described as a mental health pandemic. Spain advocates for "trustworthy AI" that prioritizes privacy, democracy, public...