Campaigners are urging the UK Government to implement stricter penalties for social media companies like X (formerly Twitter) accused of spreading disinformation and hate speech. In a letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer on International Day of Democracy, advocates including Unlock Democracy and Compass emphasize the need for accountability in public discourse. Their report, “Democracy SOS,” calls for significant reforms such as caps on political donations, restoring the independence of the Electoral Commission, and limiting media ownership to promote fair reporting.
Dr. Simon Duffy highlights widespread feelings of disenfranchisement among citizens, urging for a more participatory democracy that engages communities. The proposal includes measures like a robust penalty system for deceptive social media practices and increased transparency from think tanks regarding their funding.
The campaigners warn that without action, public trust will further erode, leading to greater civic disengagement and vulnerability to extremist ideologies. The report insists the Prime Minister has a pivotal opportunity to enact these changes and strengthen democracy for future generations. They cite the potential consequences of inaction, such as the rise of authoritarianism and a breakdown of democratic norms.
