Overview
This report covers Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and replies published from 09.03.2026 to 15.03.2026. The period was dominated by the European Commission’s focus on the enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA), with multiple proceedings and investigations detailed against major platforms like X, Meta, and Shein. Other key policy areas included the ongoing implementation of the AI Act, clarifications on competition policy in the AdTech and streaming sectors, and strategic discussions on data governance, digital infrastructure like GOVSATCOM, and the EU’s global competitiveness in attracting tech talent. The Commission positions itself as an active and objective enforcer of the new digital rulebook, while also signalling efforts to simplify regulations through initiatives like the Digital Omnibus. These developments are critical for digital-policy professionals as they mark the transition from legislative drafting to the practical and often contentious phase of regulatory implementation and oversight.
Digital Services Act (DSA) Enforcement
❗ Commission Confirms and Defends DSA Enforcement Actions Against X/Grok
In several responses, the Commission confirmed it has initiated proceedings against the provider of X under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The investigation, detailed in answers to questions like E-000202/26, E-000174/26, and E-000099/26, will assess if the company properly mitigated systemic risks associated with its AI tool Grok, particularly concerning the dissemination of illegal content such as manipulated sexually explicit images and child sexual abuse material. Responding to allegations of selective enforcement in question P-000463/26, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen stated on 3 March 2026 that the action is justified by the specific obligations for Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) due to their societal risk profile, and asserted that the Commission applies the DSA’s criteria objectively and uniformly to all designated platforms.
❗ Commission Details DSA Investigations into Shein and Meta
The Commission confirmed it opened a formal investigation into the online marketplace Shein under the Digital Services Act on 17 February 2026. In his answer to question E-000165/26, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen outlined that the probe concerns risks of illegal products, addictive design, and recommender system transparency. In a separate response on 9 March 2026 regarding Meta (E-000086/26), the Commission highlighted ongoing proceedings against the company for suspected demotion of political content in its recommender systems and a preliminary finding of breach for failing to grant researchers adequate data access under Article 40 of the DSA.
❗ Commission Outlines DSA Safeguards for Freedom of Expression
In a reply published on 10 March 2026 (E-005039/25), Executive Vice-President Virkkunen clarified how the Digital Services Act (DSA) incorporates safeguards for fundamental rights. The Commission underscored that VLOPs are required to assess and mitigate any foreseeable negative effects on freedom of expression and civic discourse. It also pointed to specific obligations such as providing users with recommender system options not based on profiling and issuing clear statements of reason for content moderation decisions, including ‘shadow banning’.
❗ Commission Responds to Allegations of Platform Pressure by Member States
When questioned about allegations that French authorities pressured Telegram to censor content ahead of Moldovan elections (E-003854/25), the Commission stated it does not comment on national investigations. In the 6 March 2026 response, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen noted that Member States must respect the Charter of Fundamental Rights, including freedom of expression, when applying EU law, and that national decisions can be challenged before national courts.
❓ MEPs Probe Commission’s Role in Content Moderation and Fact-Checking
MEPs have raised concerns about the Commission’s influence on platform content moderation. In question E-000813/2026, Miriam Lexmann (PPE) asked the Commission to explain the criteria it used when reportedly flagging ‘problematic’ accounts to TikTok before the 2023 Slovak elections. Separately, in question E-000341/2026, MEPs from The Left group questioned whether Meta’s fact-checking practices, which limited the visibility of a historian’s video, amounted to censorship and called for stronger procedural guarantees under the DSA. A response from the Commission is pending for both questions.
AI Act & Digital Omnibus
❗ Digital Omnibus Pitched as First Step in Regulatory Simplification
The Commission is positioning the proposed Digital Omnibus regulation as a key part of its simplification agenda for the EU’s digital rulebook. In a response (E-000117/26) published on 9 March 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen stated the proposal aims to cut administrative costs, provide legal predictability, and simplify rules for data and AI. For the AI Act specifically, the Omnibus reflects lessons from early implementation by proposing revised timelines for high-risk rules and streamlined governance.
❗ Commission Notes AI Act Enforcement Timeline and Ongoing AI Omnibus Negotiations
In responses concerning AI-generated harmful content (E-000174/26 and E-000202/26), the Commission clarified that the enforcement rules of the AI Act will only apply from 2 August 2026, meaning investigations cannot begin before that date. However, it also noted its awareness that Member States and MEPs are proposing to strengthen protections and add explicit prohibitions for AI systems producing child sexual abuse material and non-consensual sexually explicit images within the ongoing AI Omnibus negotiations.
Competition & Market Dominance (DMA)
❗ Commission Clarifies Stance on Remedies in Google AdTech Case
Addressing procedural concerns raised by an MEP regarding the Google AdTech competition case (E-000132/26), the Commission stated that access to its full decision was not necessary for market participants to provide feedback on Google’s proposed compliance plan. In the 12 March 2026 reply, Executive Vice-President Ribera confirmed the non-confidential version was published in January 2026. The Commission also reiterated that while it previously held a preliminary view that a structural remedy might be necessary to resolve conflicts of interest, it has not reached a final conclusion and is currently assessing Google’s plan.
❗ Commission Vows Scrutiny of Potential Netflix-Warner Bros Merger and SVOD Market
The Commission is closely monitoring consolidation trends in the subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) sector. In a 4 March 2026 response to question P-000514/26, Executive Vice-President Ribera confirmed that in the event of a potential Netflix-Warner Bros transaction, the Commission would investigate a wide range of non-price effects beyond potential price hikes. This includes impacts on quality of service, content diversity, innovation, and data collection.
❗ Universal Music Group’s Acquisition of Downtown Music Cleared with Remedies
The Commission concluded its investigation into Universal Music Group’s (UMG) proposed acquisition of Downtown Music, finding that the transaction does not raise significant competition concerns. In its response to E-004716/25, published on 9 March 2026, the Commission explained that its final decision on 13 February 2026 focused on UMG gaining access to commercially sensitive data via Downtown’s software. It confirmed that remedies submitted by UMG fully addressed these concerns.
❗ Commission Clarifies Copyright Status of AI-Generated Content
In a response concerning AI in the cultural and creative sectors (E-000023/26), the Commission stated that text generated solely by AI is not eligible for protection under EU copyright law. Published on 10 March 2026, the answer from Executive Vice-President Virkkunen clarified that human post-editing of AI text may, in certain circumstances, meet the requirements for authorship and thus benefit from copyright protection. The Commission is currently reviewing the Directive on copyright in the Digital Single Market (DSM) to address challenges faced by creators, particularly regarding licensing content for use by AI providers.
❓ MEPs Question Legal Basis for ‘Fair by Design’ AI Projects
MEPs have raised questions about the use of Horizon Europe funds for projects aimed at developing ‘fair by design’ systems and algorithmic correction mechanisms to detect and mitigate biases such as sexism. In question E-000810/2026, Mathilde Androuët (PfE) asks for the specific legal basis for funding such tools and what impact assessments have been conducted regarding their potential effects on freedom of expression and technological neutrality. A Commission response is pending.
❗ Commission Defers to National Authorities on GDPR Status of Spanish V-16 Beacons
In a joint answer to three questions (E-000155/26) concerning Spain’s mandatory V-16 emergency beacons, the Commission clarified the legal interpretation of personal data under the GDPR. Commissioner McGrath’s response on 12 March 2026 explained that location data can be personal data if it relates to an identifiable person, but ultimately, it is for national data protection authorities or courts to assess specific cases. The Commission noted that the Spanish data protection authority considers that the V-16 beacons do not transmit personal data.
❗ Upcoming ePrivacy Reform and Digital Networks Act to Tackle Nuisance Calls
The Commission outlined its strategy for protecting citizens against unsolicited telephone marketing in its reply to question E-005027/25. Executive Vice-President Virkkunen confirmed on 11 March 2026 that the ePrivacy Directive will be reformed, which will include a revision of its rules on unsolicited communications. Additionally, the proposal for a Digital Networks Act includes measures to allow end-users to trace or limit malicious or nuisance calls.
❗ GOVSATCOM Operational for Crisis Management, IRIS² Exploring Citizen Services
The EU’s GOVSATCOM satellite communication service became operational in January 2026, providing Member States with secure communication capabilities for crisis management. In his 5 March 2026 response to P-000439/26, Commissioner Kubilius clarified that while GOVSATCOM does not currently offer direct connections for personal devices, the Commission is exploring such services under the future IRIS² system. He also highlighted the upcoming Galileo Early Warning Satellite Service, which will transmit alerts directly to citizens’ smartphones.
❓ Future of Poland’s National Digital ID App Questioned Amidst eIDAS 2.0 Rollout
An MEP has questioned the future of Poland’s successful ‘mObywatel’ digital identity application, which has over 11 million users, following the implementation of the eIDAS 2.0 Regulation and the launch of the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet). In question E-000763/2026, Kosma Złotowski (ECR) asks if the Commission permits the coexistence of parallel national and EU wallets and whether mObywatel could be integrated with the EUDI Wallet. A response is pending.
❓ Commission Pressed on Delays and Technical Issues with Entry/Exit System
MEPs are seeking answers on the persistent delays and reported technical problems with the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES). Question E-000788/2026 highlights reports of issues with scaling up the biometric technology and significant processing delays for travellers, asking the Commission for its assessment and data on how many Member States have reported problems. A Commission reply is awaited.
❓ MEPs Seek Clarity on Digital Finance and Crypto Regulation
Questions have been raised regarding the implementation of new financial regulations. In E-000798/2026, an MEP seeks clarification on whether e-money tokens backed by central bank money can be considered ‘settlement in central bank money’ under the CSDR reform. Another question, E-000856/2026, asks if the Commission has assessed the impact of MiCA’s capital and licensing requirements on small crypto-asset firms and the risk of businesses relocating outside the EU. The Commission has yet to respond.
❓ Call for Harmonised EU Framework for Fully Autonomous Driving
Elena Kountoura (The Left) has called on the Commission to establish a single European safety, certification, and accountability framework for high-level and fully autonomous driving (levels 4-5). In question E-000837/2026, she highlights gaps in type approval, real-world testing, and liability rules, urging the Commission to outline its actions to create harmonised standards. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Highlights Strengthened Consumer Protections in Payment Services Regulation
The Commission is strengthening consumer protection against payment fraud through the proposed Payment Services Regulation (PSR). In her 9 March 2026 response to E-000069/2026, Commissioner Albuquerque confirmed that the PSR proposal includes a new refund right for consumers who fall victim to ‘spoofing’ fraud. The provisional agreement reached by co-legislators also strengthens refund rights and introduces potential secondary liability for intermediaries like online platforms where fraudulent content originates.
❗ Medical Device Rules and Standards Govern Diabetes Tech Safety
In response to a query about minimum quality standards for diabetes management devices (E-004998/25), the Commission explained that these products are covered by the general safety and performance requirements of the Medical Devices Regulation. Commissioner Várhelyi’s reply on 9 March 2026 noted that these requirements are supported by technical specifications in harmonised standards for quality management, risk management, and specific devices like blood-glucose monitoring systems and infusion pumps.
❗ EU Funds and EHDS to Improve Healthcare Access in Remote Regions
The Commission addressed the issue of healthcare access in underserved and island regions, particularly in Greece, in answers E-004911/25 and E-005045/25. Commissioner Várhelyi highlighted that the implementation of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation aims to support cross-border healthcare. Furthermore, Greece has earmarked significant funding from the European Social Fund Plus and the European Regional Development Fund for 2021-2027 to improve primary care, upgrade facilities, and expand telemedicine in remote areas.
❓ MEPs Question SME Access to Digital Funding and Stagnating Competitiveness
MEPs are pressing the Commission on the EU’s economic performance. Question E-000937/2026 asks how the Commission will simplify access to digital financing for SMEs, noting their low uptake of Digital Europe Programme funding. In a broader query (E-000919/2026), an MEP points to the Commission’s own report showing limited progress on single market and competitiveness indicators and asks for new measures to accelerate integration. Commission responses are pending.
❓ MEPs Propose Online Gambling Levy to Fund Digital Skills
A broad cross-party group of MEPs has formally asked the Commission to consider introducing a harmonised EU-level levy on online gambling and betting services. The oral question (O-000014/2026) suggests the revenue could be used as a new EU own resource to provide stable financing for education, digital skills, and youth policies in the next multiannual financial framework (MFF). A Commission response is awaited.
❗ Commission Details Support for Adapting Civilian Industry for Defence Production
The Commission is actively supporting the adaptation of civilian manufacturing capacities for defence needs. In a 6 March 2026 response (E-004989/25), Commissioner Kubilius detailed several initiatives, including the European Defence Fund, the Act in support of ammunition production (ASAP), and the new European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP). These programmes provide financial incentives and frameworks to help civilian companies, including SMEs, pivot to producing defence-related products like drones and heavy vehicles.
❓ MEPs Flag Funding Uncertainty for Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEIs)
Concerns have been raised that companies recognised as participating in IPCEIs still face uncertainty about receiving funding due to obstacles at the national level. In question E-000814/2026, Miriam Lexmann (PPE) asks if the Commission is aware of these problems and whether it plans to reform procedures to guarantee that companies receive European funding once they are approved as IPCEIs. A Commission reply is pending.
❓ MEPs Raise Alarm Over US Report Exposing EU Officials in DSA Implementation
A group of MEPs has expressed serious concern over a report by the United States House Judiciary Committee that published email exchanges exposing the identities of EU officials and civil society members involved in the implementation of the Digital Services Act. Question E-000880/2026 asks what measures the Commission will take to address these privacy violations and protect its officials from potential foreign sanctions. A Commission response is pending.
❗ EU Condemns Iranian Repression and Internet Blackouts
In a 3 March 2026 reply (P-000070/26), the High Representative/Vice-President Kallas confirmed the EU’s strong and united condemnation of the Iranian authorities’ use of violence and the imposition of a nationwide communications blackout. The EU has urged Iran to restore full internet access and has imposed restrictive measures on over 290 individuals and entities involved in human rights violations and internet censoring, including the political agreement to list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation.
❗ Commission Addresses Global Competition for High-Skilled Talent
Acknowledging the challenge posed by new visa schemes like the Chinese K visa and changes to the US H-1B visa, the Commission outlined its strategy to attract highly skilled workers. In its 5 March 2026 answer to E-004650/25, Commissioner Brunner pointed to the existing framework of the EU Blue Card Directive and a new EU Visa Strategy. The Commission will assess in 2026 whether targeted legislative adjustments are needed to further enhance the EU’s attractiveness for talent in innovation and research.
❗ Commission Monitors EU Funding Rules in Czech Digitalisation Project
Responding to concerns (E-004157/25) about potential preferential treatment of non-EU suppliers in a Czech school digitalisation project financed by EU funds, the Commission stated that it is the responsibility of the Member State’s implementing body to ensure compliance with public procurement rules. However, in the 12 March 2026 reply, Commissioner Dombrovskis affirmed that the Commission monitors the use of Recovery and Resilience Facility funds and may conduct audits, engaging relevant investigative bodies if irregularities emerge.
❓ MEPs Challenge Commission on US Access to Biometric Data and Israeli Tech Funding
MEPs are scrutinizing the Commission’s international dealings. In P-000713/2026, an MEP questions why the Commission began negotiations to grant the US access to national biometric databases under the threat of visa-waiver revocation. Separately, in question E-000848/2026, MEPs ask about the due diligence and human rights monitoring applied to Israeli companies receiving Horizon Europe funding that are allegedly involved in military actions. Both questions await a Commission response.
❗ Commission Defends Legal Standing of European Centre for Democratic Resilience
The Commission has defended its creation of the European Centre for Democratic Resilience (ECDR) against legal challenges based on the Meroni/ESMA case-law. In a reply published on 12 March 2026 (E-005042/25), Commissioner McGrath argued the case law is not relevant as the Centre is a framework for coordination based on Member States’ voluntary participation and does not exercise public authority functions. It will be supported by a secretariat managed by the Commission.
❗ Commission Stresses National Responsibility for Investigating Election Finance
In response to a question (P-000108/26) about allegations of corruption in electoral campaign financing in Cyprus, the Commission reiterated that the investigation and prosecution of such offences are the responsibility of Member State authorities. However, Commissioner McGrath’s 3 March 2026 reply highlighted the Commission’s monitoring role through the annual Rule of Law Report and its work to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks, such as the forthcoming directive on combatting corruption.
The Commission’s communications this week reveal a clear and determined focus on the enforcement of its flagship digital regulations. The flurry of detailed answers concerning DSA proceedings against X, Meta, and Shein demonstrates that the era of legislative drafting has given way to active and assertive regulatory oversight. The Commission consistently frames these actions as objective applications of the rules for Very Large Online Platforms, which carry specific societal responsibilities, thereby positioning itself as a principled enforcer of the new digital single market framework.
Beyond enforcement, the Commission’s replies suggest a strategic effort to balance regulation with competitiveness. While holding platforms accountable, it simultaneously promotes initiatives like the Digital Omnibus to reduce administrative burdens and clarifies its pro-competitive stance in merger reviews. This dual approach indicates an awareness of industry concerns about over-regulation and a desire to foster an environment where European innovation can thrive.
Finally, the answers are increasingly situated within a complex geopolitical context. The Commission’s discourse touches upon the global race for tech talent, the security of EU officials implementing digital laws, and the use of EU research funds by international partners. This suggests that the Commission views digital policy not merely as an internal market issue, but as a core component of the EU’s strategic autonomy and its role on the world stage. The current phase of digital policy is one of operationalisation, where legal texts are being translated into tangible market outcomes and international realities.
All Parliamentary Questions and Commission Answers are accessible via Policy-Insider.AI.
