Overview
This report covers Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and Commission replies published between Monday, 1 December and Sunday 7 December 2025. Key policy areas under scrutiny include the enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA), particularly concerning non-EU e-commerce platforms like TikTok, Temu, and Shein; the implementation of the AI Act across various sectors; the security and development of digital infrastructure, including 5G networks and cybersecurity; and the geopolitical dimensions of technology policy. The Commission consistently positions its existing legislative toolkit—the DSA, AI Act, and NIS2 Directive—as a comprehensive framework for addressing emerging digital challenges. Its responses indicate a focus on methodical enforcement and monitoring of compliance within the Single Market, while carefully avoiding commentary on specific political events outside the EU. These exchanges provide critical insights into the Commission’s current enforcement priorities and its interpretation of new digital regulations, signaling key areas of focus for public affairs professionals.
DSA & DMA Enforcement
❗ Commission Addresses DSA Systemic Risk Concerns Over TikTok’s Algorithm
In response to a cross-party question (E-003925/25) regarding the potential for foreign influence through TikTok’s algorithm following a US deal, the Commission has reiterated its supervisory role under the Digital Services Act (DSA). In her reply of 1 December 2025, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen stated that the Commission is monitoring the situation but cannot ascertain the impact on EU users at this stage. The response underscores that Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) like TikTok are obligated under the DSA to assess and mitigate systemic risks to civic discourse and electoral processes, and the Commission is closely monitoring compliance with these obligations for all designated platforms.
❗ Commission Outlines DSA Redress Mechanisms and Role of Trusted Flaggers
In a reply published on 3 December 2025 (P-004203/25), Executive Vice-President Virkkunen clarified key aspects of the Digital Services Act (DSA). The Commission stressed that the DSA is content-agnostic and does not define illegal content itself, but provides robust redress mechanisms for users when platforms remove content. The answer also detailed the role of ‘trusted flaggers’, which are appointed by national Digital Services Coordinators and must meet strict criteria for independence and objectivity. While their notices are prioritised, platforms remain fully responsible for the final assessment. The reply also referenced the Commission’s preliminary findings from October 2025 that TikTok and Meta may have breached their transparency obligations under the DSA.
❗ Commission Cites DSA Enforcement and Customs Reform to Tackle Unfair E-Commerce Competition
Responding to concerns from consumer and retail organisations about regulatory gaps for non-EU online marketplaces (E-003905/25), the Commission highlighted its ongoing enforcement actions. In a 1 December 2025 reply, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen confirmed that the Digital Services Act (DSA) is a key tool, noting that proceedings have been initiated against AliExpress and Temu. The Commission also pointed to the forthcoming EU Customs reform, expected for adoption in 2026, which will eliminate the EUR 150 ‘de minimis’ threshold for imports and could see its e-commerce measures applied earlier than the originally planned 2028 date.
❗ Commission Confirms Ongoing DSA Monitoring of Ultra-Fast Fashion Platform Shein
In a reply dated 5 December 2025 (P-004096/25), Executive Vice-President Séjourné confirmed that the Commission is actively monitoring online marketplaces offering ultra-fast fashion, such as Shein. The response states that Shein, as a designated Very Large Online Platform (VLOP), is subject to enhanced due diligence obligations under the Digital Services Act (DSA), and that compliance monitoring and regulatory dialogue are ongoing. The Commission also referenced the upcoming EU customs reform and the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles as key EU-level actions to address the environmental and competitive challenges posed by the sector.
❗ Commission Highlights Customs Reform and Product Rules to Address Ultra-Fast Fashion Imports
In a combined reply to several questions concerning ultra-fast fashion e-commerce, published on 28 November 2025 (E-003739/25), Executive Vice-President Séjourné outlined a multi-pronged approach. The Commission pointed to the e-Commerce Communication and the ongoing Customs Reform package, which will eliminate the EUR 150 import threshold and could be implemented as early as 2026. The reply also noted that upcoming eco-design requirements for textiles and the Forced Labour Regulation will further regulate products allowed on the internal market, ensuring a more level playing field.
❓ MEPs Probe Commission Action on Google’s AI Overviews and Impact on Publishers
MEPs have raised concerns (E-004665/2025) about Google’s introduction of ‘AI Overviews’ in its search results, alleging it harms the visibility and sustainability of European publishers in potential breach of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and Digital Services Act (DSA). The question, submitted on 21 November 2025, asks the Commission what urgent actions, including possible structural sanctions, it will take to address these practices and whether it considers the existing transparency and non-discrimination rules sufficient. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Question Pace of DSA Proceedings Against Non-EU E-Commerce Platforms
A group of MEPs from Central and Eastern Europe has questioned the Commission (E-004683/2025) on the slow pace of proceedings under the Digital Services Act (DSA) against large non-EU e-commerce platforms like Temu and Shein. The question, submitted on 25 November 2025, highlights high non-compliance rates for products sold on these marketplaces and the negative impact on European SMEs. The MEPs are asking when the Commission expects to conclude its proceedings and whether a more rapid response is needed to defend the single market. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Seek Clarity on Costs and Accountability for Erroneous Content Removal Under DSA
Following a previous Commission answer stating that DSA mechanisms led to the reinstatement of millions of pieces of content, MEPs are now asking about the associated costs for digital platforms (E-004703/2025). The question, submitted on 26 November 2025, seeks to understand what sanction or incentive mechanisms exist to ensure ‘trusted flaggers’ minimise errors in their reporting, and whether the current system creates an imbalance where platforms bear the full cost of correcting mistakes. A Commission reply is awaited.
Other Legislative Frameworks
❓ MEPs Raise Concerns About Circumvention of Political Advertising Rules
In a question submitted on 25 November 2025 (E-004689/2025), MEPs are seeking clarification on the scope of the Transparency and Targeting of Political Advertising Regulation (TTPA). Citing investigations in Sweden, the question asks whether political advertising disseminated through companies owned or controlled by political parties falls under the TTPA’s transparency obligations. The MEPs are pressing the Commission on whether it intends to close this potential loophole and how it will monitor for similar arrangements across Member States. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Affirms AI Act and DSA Adequately Address Deepfake and Disinformation Risks
In response to concerns about the use of AI-generated deepfakes to influence political discourse (E-003952/25), the Commission has asserted that its existing legal framework is the most comprehensive in the world. In a 1 December 2025 reply, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen stated that the AI Act and the Digital Services Act (DSA) directly address these risks. The AI Act imposes risk mitigation and transparency obligations on systemic AI models, while the DSA requires VLOPs to mitigate systemic risks to civic discourse. The Commission also referenced the Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) Toolbox as an operational tool to counter such threats.
❗ Commission Details EU Actions Against Cyberbullying, Citing DSA and Better Internet for Kids+ Strategy
Addressing the issue of school violence and cyberbullying (E-003682/25), the Commission outlined its multi-faceted approach to protecting minors online. In a reply from Commissioner Micallef on 2 December 2025, it was highlighted that the Digital Services Act (DSA) establishes strong safeguards, complemented by the Better Internet for Kids+ Strategy. The Commission also noted its plan to adopt an EU Action Plan against Cyberbullying and pointed to various EU-wide initiatives and funding programmes like Erasmus+ and the co-funding of Safer Internet Centres, which are designed to be accessible in all regions, including rural areas.
❓ MEPs Scrutinise EU Funding for Companies Linked to Spyware
A broad coalition of MEPs has questioned the Commission (E-004636/2025) about EU funds from Horizon 2020 and the European Investment Fund being granted to companies involved in developing spyware, specifically mentioning Paragon Solutions. The question, submitted on 20 November 2025, asks what checks were carried out, how the Commission will prevent the misuse of a ‘national security’ clause to target journalists, and which European authorities oversee such practices. A Commission response is pending.
❓ MEPs Urge Commission Action Against Anti-EU Disinformation
Citing specific examples of disinformation circulating on social media, including AI-generated images, MEPs have asked the Commission (E-004620/2025) what it is doing to protect citizens from propaganda aimed at increasing distrust in EU institutions. The question from 19 November 2025 queries whether the Commission is considering a rapid reaction mechanism and if it has a status report on the proportion of fake news on social networks in the EU. A response is awaited.
❗ Commission Points to NIS2 and Media Freedom Act as Safeguards Against Telecom Surveillance
In a 1 December 2025 response to a question (E-004042/25) about unlawful surveillance through telecom networks, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen pointed to the existing and upcoming legislative framework. The reply highlights that the NIS2 Directive requires telecom providers to implement cybersecurity risk-management measures. Furthermore, the European Media Freedom Act introduces specific safeguards to protect journalists’ communications from intrusive surveillance software. The Commission also clarified that the upcoming Digital Networks Act is expected to be complementary to these existing laws.
❗ Commission Reaffirms Digital Decade Connectivity Targets for Rural Areas
The Commission has reiterated its commitment to achieving the Digital Decade 2030 targets for connectivity in a reply dated 3 December 2025 (E-003956/25). Executive Vice-President Virkkunen noted that as of 2024, 79.6% of EU rural households had basic 5G coverage and 61.9% were reached by very high-capacity networks. The response highlights that at least EUR 17.2 billion in EU funding is dedicated to connectivity in the current budget, and that the upcoming Digital Networks Act will aim to further incentivise investment in digital infrastructure across the EU.
❗ Commission Addresses Risks to Emergency Service Access During 4G/5G Migration
In a reply on 3 December 2025 (E-003985/25), Executive Vice-President Virkkunen confirmed that Member States must ensure access to emergency services for all number-based interpersonal communications services, including under roaming conditions. The Commission acknowledged that it is aware of the risks that certain ‘home routing’ implementations in 4G and 5G networks pose to effective access to emergency services. It stated that its services are in contact with national authorities and mobile network operators to find a solution to this potential technological shortcoming.
❓ MEPs Question Commission Stance on Telecom Sector Consolidation
Citing the Mario Draghi report on European competitiveness, an MEP has asked the Commission (E-004720/2025) whether it agrees that increased consolidation in the telecom sector is necessary to create a true single market and boost investment. The question, submitted on 28 November 2025, also asks if the Commission has concrete plans for legislative action to facilitate consolidation and if it can estimate the potential impact on consumer prices. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Inquire About Security of Submarine Internet Cables
A question submitted on 13 November 2025 (E-004524/2025) seeks information from the Commission on the state of global submarine internet cables. The MEP asks for data on the number of active cables, the number of companies capable of repairing them, and what contingency plans the EU has in place to ensure connectivity in the event of widespread disruptions. A Commission reply is awaited.
❓ MEPs Raise Alarm Over Alleged Transfer of Sensitive Cadastral Data
An MEP has asked the Commission (E-004656/2025) to investigate the alleged transfer of personal cadastral data of millions of European citizens to banks and servicers in Greece, potentially violating EU data protection and competition law. The question from 21 November 2025 asks if EU funds were used to finance the contract in question and what measures the Commission will take to investigate the possible data leakage. A response is pending.
AI in Health, Energy & Finance
❗ Commission Details Plans for European Network of AI-Powered Health Screening Centres
In a 1 December 2025 reply (E-004022/25), Executive Vice-President Virkkunen provided details on the announced European network of AI-powered advanced screening centres. This flagship initiative under the Apply AI Strategy will be an open network of medical centres deploying AI for early detection of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It will be funded through the Digital Europe Programme and EU4Health, and will collaborate closely with European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs). The Commission stressed that all AI systems used must comply with the AI Act’s rules for high-risk systems and that data sharing will adhere to GDPR, with the future European Health Data Space providing the secure infrastructure.
❗ Commission Acknowledges Role of Nuclear Energy for AI Data Centres
The Commission has acknowledged that nuclear energy, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), will play a strategic role in meeting the growing energy demand of data centres and supporting Europe’s AI competitiveness. In a reply from Commissioner Jørgensen on 3 December 2025 (E-003455/25), it was confirmed that the Commission plans to adopt a strategy for SMR development and is preparing a Strategic Roadmap for digitalisation and AI in the energy sector for early 2026. The response also reiterated the Commission’s commitment to a clear and simple implementation of the risk-based AI Act to boost innovation.
❓ MEPs Press Commission on Regulatory Gaps for Commercial Card Interchange Fees
An MEP has highlighted rising costs for European businesses due to unregulated fees on commercial card transactions, which are not covered by the 2015 Interchange Fee Regulation (IFR) for consumer cards (E-004680/2025). The question, submitted on 25 November 2025, argues that identifying and refusing these cards is difficult for merchants. It asks the Commission how it plans to address this regulatory gap and whether it will consider competition law measures similar to those previously applied to consumer cards. A response is pending.
AI in Transport
❓ MEPs Criticise Regulatory Delays for Autonomous Driving in the EU
A question submitted on 26 November 2025 (E-004709/2025) argues that the EU is falling behind the US in the roll-out of autonomous driving systems due to a slow and inflexible regulatory framework reliant on outdated UN rules. The MEP asks if the Commission acknowledges this barrier, when it will propose an updated legislative framework to speed up authorisation, and if it accepts that the delay damages European competitiveness and public safety. A Commission reply is awaited.
❓ MEPs Challenge Legal Basis for Suspending Russian Entities from Horizon Europe
MEPs are following up on a previous question (E-004664/2025) regarding the legal basis for the Commission’s decision on 4 March 2022 to suspend funding to all Russian entities under the Horizon Europe programme. The question, submitted on 21 November 2025, points out that the legal provisions cited by the Commission in its previous answer were adopted after the suspension decision was made. The MEPs are asking for the specific legal basis that was in effect on 4 March 2022 and whether the Commission believes it has the same competence to suspend cooperation with Israeli entities. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Confirms Expert Group to Tackle GPS Jamming and Maritime Threats
In response to a question about maritime security threats in the Atlantic (E-003811/25), the Commission confirmed the establishment of an expert group on signal interference, hosted by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA). In a 1 December 2025 reply, Commissioner Tzitzikostas stated that the group’s work is Europe-wide and has developed an incident reporting protocol for mariners. The response also noted that EMSA’s mandate has been reinforced to meet new challenges, including the creation of a 24/7 maritime awareness centre to support Member States.
❗ Commission Frames Air Defence as Top Priority, Citing New Funding Mechanisms
Responding to concerns about Russian violations of Estonian airspace (P-003855/25), the Commission has designated air and missile defence as a top capability priority. In a reply from Commissioner Kubilius on 4 December 2025, it was stated that the Commission is mobilising EU funding through the European Defence Fund and the European Defence Industry Programme. The new Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument will help Member States procure assets jointly, leveraging up to EUR 150 billion in financing, underscoring the centrality of the defence industry in the next EU budget.
❗ Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Global Freedom of Expression but Rules Out Specific US Asylum Policy
When asked about a perceived crackdown on freedom of speech in the United States (E-003722/25), the Commission reiterated its commitment to freedom of expression as a fundamental right. In a 1 December 2025 reply, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen stated that the EU engages with partner countries like the US through dialogue and cooperation. However, the Commission clarified that it does not plan to adopt a specific policy for granting international protection to media professionals from the United States, noting that any asylum application is assessed individually by the relevant Member State authorities under existing EU law.
❓ MEPs Question US Influence on ‘Digital Omnibus’ Legislation
A group of MEPs has raised concerns (E-004632/2025) about European digital sovereignty following press reports that the ‘Digital Omnibus’ simplification package was drafted in consultation with the US administration and major tech companies. The question, submitted on 20 November 2025, asks the Commission to detail its contacts with US authorities and GAFAM representatives during the drafting process and to clarify whether the US threatened trade retaliation. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Allege Conflicts of Interest Over Chinese Tech Influence in Spanish Government
MEPs have questioned the Commission (E-004588/2025) about potential conflicts of interest and risks to collective security posed by alleged links between senior Spanish Government officials and Chinese tech company Huawei. The question, submitted on 18 November 2025, asks if the Commission sees a conflict of interest and whether it plans to take measures beyond issuing warnings. A Commission reply is awaited.
❗ Commission Details Efforts to Strengthen Biofuel Traceability via Union Database
In a reply dated 28 November 2025 (E-002771/25), Commissioner Jørgensen outlined measures to improve the traceability of sustainable fuels and mitigate fraud risks. The Commission highlighted the role of the ‘Union database’ (UDB), a global traceability tool already used by 31,000 economic operators. A forthcoming delegated regulation in early 2026 will extend the UDB’s traceability to cover raw materials, and a revision of existing regulations will further strengthen the certification system and audit standards.
❗ Commission Clarifies Scope of Ocean Observation Initiative Regarding Radioactive Waste
In response to a question about monitoring radioactive waste drums in the Atlantic (E-004186/25), the Commission clarified the scope of its upcoming European Ocean Observation Initiative. In a 5 December 2025 reply, Commissioner Kadis explained that the initiative will focus on strategic autonomy, technology development, and governance, but will not have a specific geographical dimension. The Commission noted that while the issue of radioactive waste will not be specifically covered by the initiative, Member States can already conduct radionuclide monitoring and are required to consider it in their marine strategies.
❓ MEPs Question EU Response to Dark Web Drug Sales
Following a death in Italy linked to nitazenes acquired on the dark web, an MEP has asked the Commission (E-004362/2025) what measures are in place to help authorities speed up forensic investigations into new synthetic drugs. The question from 5 November 2025 also asks how the proposed regulation on Union support for internal security will address threats from online marketplaces, strengthen forensic capabilities, and improve checks on small packages. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Allege Government Interference in Spanish National Statistics
MEPs have asked the Commission (E-004476/2025) to assess a case of alleged government interference in the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE). The question from 11 November 2025 claims that a former government Vice-President admitted to ‘helping’ the INE modify its GDP calculation methodology, which the MEPs argue is a serious violation of the institute’s professional independence under EU regulations. A Commission reply is awaited.
❓ MEPs Call for Investigation into Press Freedom Violations in Italy
Citing a fine issued by Italy’s privacy watchdog against an investigative journalism programme and alleged political interference in the decision, MEPs have asked the Commission (E-004452/2025) to launch a specific investigation into the state of press freedom in Italy. The question from 11 November 2025 also asks what monitoring mechanisms the Commission will apply to address systematic violations of media independence. A response is pending.
The Commission’s replies consistently frame the existing legislative suite—primarily the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the AI Act—as the primary and sufficient tool for addressing a wide range of digital challenges. From algorithmic risks posed by platforms like TikTok (E-003925/25) and the spread of deepfakes (E-003952/25) to cyberbullying (E-003682/25) and unfair competition from non-EU e-commerce sites (E-003905/25), the Commission’s default position is to refer to the powers and obligations already established. This suggests a current focus on implementation and enforcement rather than the development of new legislative initiatives for these specific issues.
While highlighting its enforcement powers, the Commission’s responses indicate a methodical and process-driven approach. It confirms ongoing proceedings against platforms like AliExpress, Temu, and Shein (E-003905/25, P-004096/25) and preliminary findings against TikTok and Meta (P-004203/25), but refrains from commenting on specific outcomes or timelines. Similarly, when questioned on external political events, such as developments in the US concerning TikTok or freedom of speech (E-003925/25, E-003722/25), the Commission maintains a strict institutional boundary, stating it does not comment on events outside the EU and will only assess impacts on EU users as they become clear. This positions the Commission as a regulator focused on demonstrable effects within the Single Market, rather than a proactive political actor on the global stage.
The Commission’s answers also reveal a clear strategy of integrating digital policy with other key EU priorities, such as energy, health, and industrial strategy. The planned network of AI-powered health screening centres is explicitly linked to the AI Act and the European Health Data Space (E-004022/25). The growing energy demand of AI and data centres is acknowledged with reference to nuclear energy and a forthcoming Strategic Roadmap for digitalisation in the energy sector (E-003455/25). This cross-policy integration suggests that the implementation of digital regulations will be closely tied to achieving broader strategic objectives for the Union, revealing a holistic approach to governance in the digital age.
