Overview
This report covers Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and replies published from 23.02.2026 to 01.03.2026. The period was dominated by intense scrutiny of the Digital Services Act (DSA), with a focus on enforcement actions against major platforms, election integrity, and allegations of censorship originating from the United States. Other significant policy areas included the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the application of the AI Act to fundamental rights, and strategic initiatives like the upcoming Cloud and AI Development Act and the European Health Data Space (EHDS). The Commission’s tone is consistently procedural and assertive, positioning itself as a diligent enforcer of its new digital rulebook, framing its actions as necessary to protect fundamental rights, ensure fair markets, and bolster the EU’s digital sovereignty. These developments provide critical insights for digital-policy professionals into the Commission’s enforcement priorities, its interpretation of new legal frameworks, and its strategic direction on digital industrial policy.
DSA & DMA Enforcement and Interpretation
❗ Commission Defends DSA’s Recommender System Rules Against Editorial Freedom Concerns
In a reply on 24 February 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen addressed concerns that the Digital Services Act’s (DSA) obligations on recommender systems interfere with platforms’ editorial freedom. The Commission stated in its answer to question E-005040/25 that it does not consider the DSA’s transparency and risk management obligations an interference with Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights. It framed these systems as crucial for amplifying content and noted that all powers exercised by national Digital Services Coordinators must comply with the Charter and are subject to judicial review.
❗ Commission Confirms Ongoing DSA Investigation into X/Grok Deployment
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen confirmed on 26 February 2026 that the Commission has launched a formal investigation against X under the Digital Services Act (DSA) concerning the deployment of its AI tool, Grok. The answer to E-000142/26 details that the investigation, initiated on 26 January 2026, assesses risks related to illegal content, such as manipulated sexually explicit images. The Commission noted it had already sent X a request for information in September 2025 and will carry out its investigation as a matter of priority, with potential fines of up to 6% of worldwide turnover if a breach is found.
❗ Commission Outlines Multi-Layered Legal Framework for Influencers
Responding to a question on 26 February 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen detailed the EU’s legal framework for regulating online influencers. The answer to E-000170/26 explains that influencers are covered by the Digital Services Act (DSA), the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD), and the Political Advertising Regulation. The Commission also highlighted its EU Influencer Legal Hub for consumer law compliance and announced it will support a voluntary network of influencers to raise awareness of EU rules and encourage ethical standards.
❗ Commission Details DSA Enforcement Actions on TikTok Regarding Election Integrity
In a reply on 23 February 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen confirmed the Commission is aware of AI-generated content on TikTok advocating for Poland’s exit from the EU and has engaged with the platform under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The answer to E-000055/2026 references the formal proceedings initiated against TikTok in December 2024 for suspected breaches related to election integrity risks. The Commission reiterated its guidelines for Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) on labelling AI-generated content and noted these measures will be reinforced by the AI Act.
❗ Commission Monitors DMA Compliance by Booking.com
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen stated on 23 February 2026 that the Commission is continuously monitoring Booking.com’s compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). In response to E-004981/25, the Commission noted that Booking has removed ‘parity clauses’ as required, allowing accommodation providers to offer different rates on various channels. The Commission affirmed it will use its full investigation powers if compliance concerns arise and is currently reviewing the DMA, including its implications for AI services.
❗ Commission Reports on DMA Messaging Interoperability Progress
On 27 February 2026, Executive Vice-President Ribera provided an update on the implementation of the Digital Markets Act’s (DMA) interoperability requirement for messaging services. The answer to E-000134/26 specifies that Meta is the only designated gatekeeper for messaging (WhatsApp and Messenger) and has published its reference offers. The Commission confirmed that two new services, BirdyChat and Haiket, have managed to interoperate with WhatsApp, indicating potential demand for this feature. It also stressed that the level of security, including end-to-end encryption, must be preserved.
❗ Commission Details Monitoring of DSA’s Notice-and-Action and Dispute Settlement Mechanisms
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen confirmed on 26 February 2026 that the Commission and Digital Services Coordinators (DSCs) are actively monitoring platforms’ compliance with the Digital Services Act’s (DSA) notice-and-action and out-of-court dispute settlement (ODS) provisions. The response to E-000017/26 cites ongoing proceedings against Meta and X for suspected breaches. The Commission also noted it has commissioned a study to assess the implementation of the ODS system to determine if additional guidance is needed.
❓ MEPs Scrutinise Telegram’s Exclusion from DSA’s VLOP Regime
In a priority question submitted on 12 February 2026, Urmas Paet (Renew) pressed the Commission on the status of Telegram under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The question, P-000628/2026, asks why Telegram, allegedly a key channel for Russian disinformation and criminal activity, has not been designated as a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP). The MEP requests clarity on the methodology for calculating user numbers and asks when the Commission will finalise the related delegated act. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Allege Commission Interference in Elections via the DSA
A group of MEPs from the PfE group submitted a question on 11 February 2026 concerning allegations of Commission interference in Member State elections through the Digital Services Act (DSA). Citing a report from the US House Committee on the Judiciary, question E-000592/2026 asks if the Commission’s dual role as a political actor and enforcer creates a conflict of interest and whether its actions breach the Charter of Fundamental Rights. The MEPs call for the publication of all communications with platforms regarding political content. A Commission answer is pending.
❓ MEP Questions Funding of DSA ‘Watchdogs’ and Experts
Virginie Joron (PfE) submitted a question on 11 February 2026 regarding the funding of experts and organisations involved in monitoring the Digital Services Act (DSA). Question E-000587/2026 alleges a lack of transparency in funding for academics and organisations like the DSA Observatory, questioning why Commission officials participate in events with organisations not listed in the Transparency Register. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Raise Concerns Over US Allegations of DSA-Led Censorship
In a question filed on 18 February 2026, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová (Renew) asked the Commission about its response to a US House Judiciary Committee report alleging the EU is censoring the internet via the Digital Services Act (DSA). The question, E-000681/2026, also raises concerns about the publication of names and contact details of EU officials and researchers, which could expose them to harassment, and asks what measures the Commission will take to ensure their safety. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Question if the DSA is a Tool for Silencing Opinions
Several MEPs submitted questions on 9 February 2026 and 5 February 2026, referencing a US House Judiciary Committee report to ask if the Digital Services Act (DSA) is being used to suppress political speech. Questions E-000528/2026 and E-000461/2026 accuse the Commission of pressuring platforms to censor content critical of EU narratives and certain conservative viewpoints. A Commission response is pending.
❓ MEPs Question Google’s Android Policy Under Competition Law
MEPs Mélanie Disdier and Valérie Deloge (PfE) submitted a question on 11 February 2026 regarding Google’s plan to require identity verification for all Android app developers. Question E-000612/2026 asks if the Commission considers this policy an abuse of a dominant position and what actions it will take to ensure developers can distribute apps outside the Google Play store. A response is pending.
AI Act and Fundamental Rights
❗ Commission Assesses Hungary’s Use of Facial Recognition Under AI Act
In a reply on 23 February 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen addressed the use of facial recognition systems in Hungary. The answer to E-004013/2025 notes the AI Act’s prohibition on real-time remote biometric identification for law enforcement and confirms the Commission is assessing a reply from Hungarian authorities to determine compliance with EU law. The Commission also specified that the enforcement of these prohibitions by national authorities is set to begin from 2 August 2026.
❓ MEPs Probe AI’s Impact on Employment and Inequality
Idoia Mendia (S&D) submitted a question on 11 February 2026 regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on the EU labour market. Citing IMF warnings, question E-000571/2026 asks if the Commission intends to reinforce data gathering on AI’s effects on employment, salaries, and working conditions, and how it will ensure this data translates into effective public policies to curb unemployment and inequality. A response from the Commission is pending.
European Media Freedom Act (EMFA)
❗ Commission Clarifies EMFA’s Scope on Media Pluralism and ‘Climate Disinformation’
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen stated on 23 February 2026 that the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) does not prevent Member States from enforcing national laws on media pluralism and impartiality, provided these measures are justified and proportionate. In its answer to E-005024/2025, the Commission also noted that neither the EMFA nor other EU legislation defines ‘climate disinformation’, and any national action in this area must respect freedom of expression. The EMFA has been applicable since 8 August 2025.
❗ Commission Monitors French Media Concentration Under EMFA
On 23 February 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen confirmed that the European Board for Media Services has not yet been consulted by French authorities regarding the acquisition of the magazine ‘Challenges’ under Article 22 of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). The answer to E-000043/2026 clarifies that the Board can issue an opinion on its own initiative if a media concentration is likely to affect the internal market. The Commission is monitoring the application of the EMFA in all Member States.
❓ MEP Questions Portuguese Government’s Compliance with EMFA
Catarina Martins (The Left) submitted a question on 16 February 2026 asking if recent changes to the statutes of the Portuguese news agency Lusa comply with the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). Question E-000660/2026 alleges that the changes introduce greater governmental control, potentially breaching Article 5 of the EMFA on the independence of public service providers. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Outlines Strategy for Sovereign Cloud and AI Development
In a reply on 23 February 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen outlined the Commission’s commitment to enhancing Europe’s digital sovereignty and competitiveness through the upcoming Cloud and AI Development Act. The answer to E-005052/2025 states the Act will foster cloud use, particularly in public administration, and create a harmonised definition of sovereign cloud. The Commission stressed that while the internal market remains open, highly critical use cases will require secure EU-based cloud capacity.
❗ Commission Details EU Cybersecurity Crisis Management Framework
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen, in a response dated 23 February 2026, detailed the EU’s comprehensive framework for cybersecurity. The answer to E-004978/2025 references the EU blueprint on cybersecurity crisis management, the revised Cybersecurity Act, the NIS 2 Directive, and the Cyber Solidarity Act. The Commission also highlighted its support for a research-to-deployment pipeline via the Horizon Europe and Digital Europe programmes to protect critical digital infrastructure.
❗ Commission Clarifies Data Protection Rules for European Health Data Space
On 27 February 2026, Commissioner Várhelyi explained the legal basis for processing health data under the GDPR and the new European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation. The answer to E-004761/2025 clarifies that while national law governs domestic electronic health records, the EHDS Regulation will enable cross-border exchange for medical treatment and re-use for research. The Commission emphasized that the regulation includes strict safeguards, such as the use of pseudonymised data for re-use and options for patients to opt out.
❓ MEPs Raise Alarm Over US Access to EU Biometric Databases
Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle (Renew) submitted a question to the Council on 19 February 2026 regarding negotiations to grant the United States access to national biometric databases in EU Member States. Question E-000716/2026 asks why the Council gave in to US threats to revoke visa-free access and questions the appropriateness of such negotiations in the current geopolitical context. A response is pending.
❓ MEP Seeks Clarity on Data Protection for Menstrual Cycle Tracking Apps
In a question submitted on 11 February 2026, Marko Vešligaj (S&D) asked the Commission about the protection of sensitive health data processed by menstrual cycle tracking apps. Question E-000599/2026 queries whether the Commission will issue specific guidelines for such applications regarding data lawfulness and transparency, and how it will ensure compliance with the European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Defends Governance of Joint Undertakings for Industrial Sovereignty
Responding on 24 February 2026 to criticisms from the European Court of Auditors, Commissioner Zaharieva defended the role of Joint Undertakings (JUs) in advancing EU industrial sovereignty. The answer to E-004976/2025 acknowledges budget implementation delays in strategic sectors like chips and supercomputing but highlights the JUs’ success in aligning R&I investments and leveraging private funding. The Commission stated it is monitoring past shortcomings and will continue to streamline the partnership portfolio.
❗ Commission Launches Initiative to Strengthen Europe’s Open-Source Ecosystem
On 26 February 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen announced a call for evidence for an initiative to support European open digital ecosystems. In the answer to E-000047/2026, the Commission stated this action is designed to gather evidence on barriers and potential EU actions to strengthen the open-source ecosystem, including in AI. The initiative addresses issues like access to public procurement, growth capital, and infrastructure, and will inform a future Commission communication on the topic.
❗ Commission Upholds Decision Not to Extend Copyright Term for Audiovisual Performers
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen reiterated on 26 February 2026 the Commission’s position against extending the term of copyright protection for audiovisual performers and film producers. The answer to E-004596/2025 refers to a 2020 Staff Working Document which concluded that available evidence did not call for such an extension, citing different contracting practices and commercial lifespans compared to the music sector. The Commission confirmed that the term of protection is fully harmonised at the EU level.
❓ Parliament Seeks Details on Upcoming European Research Area (ERA) Act
The Committee on Industry, Research and Energy submitted oral questions to the Council and Commission on 23 February 2026 regarding the upcoming European Research Area (ERA) Act. The questions (O-000007/2026 and O-000008/2026) seek to address persistent structural obstacles to a fully functioning ERA, such as fragmented rules and barriers to researcher mobility. They ask about mechanisms to coordinate national R&D strategies, improve research careers, and achieve the 3% GDP investment target. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Highlights FDI Screening Framework for Strategic Acquisitions
In a reply on 24 February 2026, Commissioner Šefčovič addressed the risks of third-country companies acquiring European Notified Bodies, which have access to sensitive technical information. The answer to E-004986/2025 points to the EU’s foreign direct investment (FDI) screening regulation as the key tool. While noting that the final decision rests with Member States, the Commission can issue opinions on investments threatening security. A recently revised framework will strengthen the system by introducing a common minimum scope and mandatory screening.
❗ Commission Defends Legal Basis of European Centre for Democratic Resilience
On 25 February 2026, Commissioner McGrath responded to questions about the legal basis for the new European Centre for Democratic Resilience. The answer to E-004959/2025 asserts that the Centre will respect the allocation of competences and will not interfere in national electoral processes, which remain a Member State competence. The Commission framed the Centre as a framework for voluntary coordination and information sharing, supported by a secretariat managed by the Commission.
❗ Commission Clarifies Use of AI in Erasmus+ Evaluations
Executive Vice-President Mînzatu explained on 24 February 2026 that while evaluators in the Erasmus+ Programme may use AI as a tool, they are ultimately responsible for all scoring and content. In response to E-004900/25, the Commission stated that structured appeal mechanisms are available to applicants and that rules are in place to avoid bias, including requirements for evaluation committees and a code of conduct for external experts.
❗ Commission Outlines European Democracy Shield and Civil Society Funding Rules
In a reply on 27 February 2026, Commissioner McGrath described the European Democracy Shield as a strategic approach to safeguard democracy that fully respects Member State competences. The answer to E-004801/2025 also touched upon the EU Strategy for Civil Society, emphasizing that robust safeguards are in place to ensure entities involved in activities incompatible with EU values do not receive EU funding.
❗ Commission Addresses State Advertising Rules in Hungary
On 27 February 2026, Commissioner Ribera confirmed the Commission is examining a State aid complaint related to state advertising in Hungary. The answer to P-000293/26 also referenced the 2025 Rule of Law Report’s recommendation for Hungary to ensure fair distribution of state advertising and noted the ongoing infringement procedure against Hungary under the European Media Freedom Act for related issues.
❓ MEPs Question Commission’s Unilateral Creation of Democracy Centre
A group of MEPs from the PfE and ESN groups submitted a question on 17 February 2026 challenging the legitimacy of the Commission’s establishment of the European Centre for Democratic Resilience. Question E-000680/2026 claims the body was created unilaterally without consulting Parliament and asks for details on the decision-making process, responsibilities, and funding. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Seek Information on Frontex App ‘RECAPP’ for CEAS Reform
Özlem Demirel (The Left) filed a question on 11 February 2026 asking for details on digital apps being developed by Frontex to implement the Common European Asylum System (CEAS) reform. Question E-000578/2026 specifically requests information on the costs, developers, capabilities, and use of the RECAPP app, which deals with returns. A Commission answer is pending.
❓ MEPs Urge Revision of Schengen Entry/Exit System Amid Delays
In a question submitted on 17 February 2026, MEPs from several groups raised concerns about significant delays at airports caused by the new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES). Question E-000679/2026 asks if the Commission will review the system in light of reported problems and how it plans to improve implementation ahead of the summer travel peak. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Raise Concerns Over E-Scooter Waste Management
A question submitted on 16 February 2026 by Maria Zacharia (NI) highlights shortcomings in the management of discarded electric scooters under EU waste legislation. Question E-000648/2026 asks the Commission to assess compliance with obligations under the WEEE Directive and Batteries Regulation and to consider measures to prevent illegal cross-border shipments of such waste. A response is pending.
❓ MEP Questions EU Response to ‘Stop Destroying Videogames’ Initiative
Kosma Złotowski (ECR) submitted a question on 10 February 2026 regarding the ‘Stop Destroying Videogames’ European Citizens’ Initiative. Question E-000536/2026 asks if the Commission is considering regulations to prevent producers from making purchased games non-functional after technical support ends, framing it as an issue of consumer rights and planned obsolescence. A response is pending.
Based on the Commission’s answers this week, three cross-cutting themes emerge. First is the emphasis on methodical, evidence-based enforcement of the new digital rulebook. In its responses concerning the DSA and DMA, the Commission consistently refers to ongoing formal proceedings (against X, TikTok), requests for information, and continuous monitoring (Booking.com). This language suggests a commitment to a robust, by-the-book enforcement posture, framing its actions not as political interventions but as procedural necessities dictated by the legislation.
Second, the Commission consistently frames its digital regulations as enablers of fundamental rights and fair markets, rather than restrictions. When challenged on the DSA’s impact on editorial freedom (E-005040/25), it repositions the law as a tool to create a safer online environment where rights are protected. Similarly, DMA interoperability (E-000134/26) is presented as a pro-competitive measure to increase market contestability. This narrative serves to defend the regulatory framework against accusations of overreach while reinforcing its intended purpose.
Finally, the answers reveal a multi-pillar strategy for achieving digital sovereignty. This is not a single-issue policy but a comprehensive approach that combines infrastructure (Cloud and AI Development Act), cybersecurity resilience (NIS2, Cyber Solidarity Act), industrial policy (Joint Undertakings for chips), and ecosystem support (Open-Source Strategy). This indicates a long-term vision to build EU capacity from the foundational layers of cloud and data centres up to software and strategic industrial applications, reducing dependency on third-country providers for critical technologies.
All Parliamentary Questions and Commission Answers are accessible via Policy-Insider.AI.
