The Spanish government has introduced a new bill aimed at curbing disinformation on digital platforms, marking a significant step towards improving online accountability.

This move is part of the broader “democratic regeneration plan” unveiled by the government in spring 2024.

What does the Spanish bill against fake news involve?

The new bill applies to certain users on platforms including X, Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram. These users, defined as having more than 100,000 followers on one platform or over 200,000 across multiple platforms, will now be required to correct any false or misleading information they share. This brings them in line with obligations already imposed on traditional media outlets.

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Justice Minister Félix Bolaños emphasised at a press conference, “These people have a greater reach in the information they disseminate than many traditional media outlets. And there are professionals of hoaxes and lies who muddy our public debate with lies and falsehoods every day. Citizens who see that they are affected by a lie or inaccuracy can also exercise their right to rectification against them.”

The bill introduces several changes aimed at simplifying the rectification process for those affected by misinformation. According to a report by Huffpost, the timeframe for submitting rectification requests has been increased from seven to ten days. Influencers and digital platforms must implement “easy and accessible mechanisms” for citizens to exercise their right to rectification.

Bolaños added, “Our aim is to promote a higher quality of public debate and facilitate the right to rectification for citizens affected by lies, inaccuracies, or hoaxes.”

Correction requests will no longer have to be addressed to the outlet’s director because in the case of “pseudo-media”, according to Bolaños, it is difficult to know who sent it.

Consumer rights groups like FACUA have welcomed the initiative, saying it allows people to “undertake measures in defence of their honour.” Critics, however, have raised concerns about its implementation, particularly regarding potential political misuse.

The bill will now undergo consultation before a debate in parliament. If passed as a law, it could potentially set a precedent for regulating disinformation and fake news across Europe.

View all news in Spain.