This report provides an analysis of Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and European Commission replies published between 17 and 23 November 2025. The key policy areas under scrutiny include the enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA), the promotion of AI innovation through the AI Continent Action Plan, and a significant focus on cybersecurity and the resilience of digital infrastructure, particularly concerning high-risk suppliers and supply chain security. The Commission’s responses consistently project a commitment to implementing its landmark legislative frameworks, positioning the EU as a digitally sovereign and competitive bloc. These exchanges offer crucial insights for digital-policy professionals into the EU’s current regulatory priorities and enforcement posture.
DSA & DMA Enforcement and Interpretation
❗ Commission Clarifies DSA’s Stance on Illegal Content and Trusted Flaggers
In a reply dated 18 November 2025, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen addressed questions regarding the Digital Services Act (DSA). The Commission clarified that the DSA does not define illegal content, but rather refers to existing national or EU law, with the final determination of illegality resting with national authorities and courts. The response to question E-003616/25 underscores that while platforms must prioritize notices from nationally vetted ‘Trusted Flaggers’, they are not obliged to accept their assessments. The Commission also highlighted that DSA-mandated redress mechanisms have already resulted in the reinstatement of millions of pieces of content, reinforcing the framework’s role in safeguarding freedom of expression.
❗ Commission Reaffirms Independence of National Regulators Under DSA
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen, on 21 November 2025, responded to question E-003878/25 by emphasizing the legal safeguards for regulatory independence. The Commission stated that under both the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) and the Digital Services Act (DSA), national regulators like France’s Arcom, which serves as the Digital Services Coordinator (DSC), must operate with complete independence, without seeking or taking instructions from public or private entities. The reply reiterated that platforms, not regulators, decide on content actions, with courts having the final say, and that the DSA explicitly bans general monitoring obligations.
❗ Commission Credits DMA for Apple’s Launch of New Features in EU
Responding on 18 November 2025 to question E-003802/25, Executive Vice-President Ribera stated that the Digital Markets Act (DMA) does not prevent gatekeepers from launching new products. The Commission suggested that any delays, such as Apple’s initial decision to withhold Live Translation on AirPods in the EU, may be strategic choices by gatekeepers to limit competition. The Commission framed Apple’s subsequent launch of the feature as a positive development and a direct result of the DMA’s interoperability requirements, which forced Apple to open access to third-party developers. This, the Commission argues, ultimately opens competition and benefits consumers.
❗ Commission Outlines DSA Measures for Protecting Minors Online
In a 17 November 2025 response to question E-003970/25, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen detailed the EU’s strategy for protecting minors under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The Commission is preparing guidelines for ‘trusted flaggers’ and encourages Member States to provide them with resources. It highlighted that the European Board for Digital Services is coordinating enforcement actions targeting pornographic platforms. Furthermore, the Commission is developing an EU-wide age verification system, having released an ‘Age Verification Blueprint’ in July to serve as a reference standard for industry.
❗ Commission Confirms Signal Messenger Falls Under EU Telecom Rules
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen, in a reply on 19 November 2025, clarified the regulatory status of the Signal messenger app. The Commission considers Signal to be an ‘interpersonal communications service’ under the European Electronic Communications Code (EECC). The response to question E-003714/25 argued that even if users do not pay directly, such services are ‘normally provided for remuneration’, potentially through third-party payments or donations. Therefore, the Commission concluded that all relevant EECC rules apply to Signal.
❓ MEPs Probe Commission on AI-Generated Hate Speech Under DSA and AI Act
In a priority question (P-002793/2025) submitted on 9 July 2025, MEP Sandro Gozi (Renew) raised concerns about the AI chatbot Grok generating antisemitic content on the social media platform X. The question asks the Commission what measures it will take and whether it believes the existing DSA and AI Act frameworks are sufficient to prevent such occurrences, or if a regulatory vacuum exists for AI-generated content. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Question Platform Content Moderation Policies
MEPs from the PfE group submitted question E-004335/2025 on 4 November 2025 regarding YouTube’s content moderation, particularly concerning the suspension of political figures. The question asks if the Commission has observed changes in YouTube’s practices following a legal settlement in the US and whether it would consider reminding the platform of its obligations under the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Questioned on Removal of Bulgarian Civic Group’s Facebook Page
MEP Nikola Minchev (Renew) submitted a priority question (P-003989/2025) on 10 October 2025 regarding Meta’s removal of a Facebook page belonging to a Bulgarian civic initiative advocating for judicial independence. The question asks the Commission how it ensures DSA cooperation channels are not misused to restrict fundamental rights and whether it will issue guidance to prevent platforms from acting on vague ‘security’ justifications. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Raise Concerns Over Political Ad Restrictions by Tech Giants
In a priority question (P-004182/2025) from 23 October 2025, MEP Eero Heinäluoma (S&D) asks the Commission how it will respond to recent moves by Meta, Google, and Microsoft to tighten or block political advertising. The question highlights the potential negative impact on democratic discourse and civil society, framing the restrictions as a protest by the companies against EU transparency rules. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission’s Stance on Illegal Online Gambling Ads Questioned
MEPs Yvan Verougstraete and Sandro Gozi (Renew) asked the Commission in question E-004506/2025 on 13 November 2025 whether targeted ads for unauthorized online betting sites on platforms like Meta constitute a breach of the DSA. They also inquire about the measures the Commission will take to stop these ads and ensure penalties are fully applied. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Press Commission on Telegram’s Status Under the DSA
In question E-004541/2025 from 13 November 2025, MEP Bartłomiej Sienkiewicz (PPE) questions the delay in determining whether Telegram qualifies as a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP) under the DSA. The query asks when the investigation results will be available and what measures are being considered to oblige Telegram to cooperate with national authorities, given its role in spreading disinformation. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Queried on Marketplace Regulation and Seller Traceability
Following reports of child pornography being sold on online marketplaces, MEP Ondřej Krutílek (ECR) submitted question E-004473/2025 on 11 November 2025. The question asks the Commission about its plans to clarify rules for marketplaces acting as sellers and what steps are being taken to enforce seller traceability requirements under Article 30 of the DSA. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Call for Stronger Victim Protection from Online Gender-Based Violence
Question E-004537/2025, submitted on 13 November 2025 by MEP Nikos Pappas (The Left), highlights the issue of non-consensual sharing of intimate material. It asks the Commission how it will strengthen coordination between Member States, whether it will issue binding guidance to platforms under the DSA for common response protocols, and if it will promote a permanent European support mechanism for victims. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Probed on Abuse of Copyright Claims to Censor Journalism
MEP Tiemo Wölken (S&D) raised concerns in a priority question (P-002235/2025) on 4 June 2025 about the use of false copyright infringement claims to de-index journalistic articles from search engines like Google. The question asks how the Commission will ensure journalistic work is protected from such censorship and whether it is aware of search engines using potentially error-prone AI systems to assess these claims. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEP Raises Alarm Over Greek Implementation of Copyright Directive
In question E-004542/2025 from 13 November 2025, MEP Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left) asks the Commission about the implementation of the Copyright Directive in Greece. The query concerns reports that the national regulator may exclude platforms’ indirect revenues when calculating remuneration for press publishers, potentially undermining the directive’s intent. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Clarifies Lawful Basis for Training AI Models Under GDPR
In a 17 November 2025 reply to question E-003254/2025 concerning Meta’s use of personal data for AI training, Commissioner McGrath clarified the rules under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The Commission stated that beyond consent, ‘legitimate interest’ can be a lawful basis for processing personal data to train AI models, provided this interest is not overridden by the rights of data subjects. The response noted that the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has held that this could be relied upon, and that individuals retain the right to object. The primary responsibility for enforcement lies with national supervisory authorities, such as Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC).
❓ MEPs Question EU Influence on Meta’s AI Chatbot Guidelines
Following a report that Meta’s AI chatbots follow guidelines aligned with EU institutional sensitivities, MEP Tom Vandendriessche (PfE) submitted question E-004520/2025 on 13 November 2025. The question asks if the Commission was aware of the extent of this influence and whether any independent tests were conducted to ensure this practice does not restrict fundamental freedoms like expression and pluralism. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission’s Commitment to ePrivacy Questioned Amid CSA Regulation Deadlock
MEP Birgit Sippel (S&D) submitted a priority question (P-003471/2025) on 8 September 2025 regarding the future of the ePrivacy Directive. The question presses the Commission on whether it intends to propose another extension of the temporary derogation allowing providers to scan for child sexual abuse (CSA) material, given the legislative deadlock on the main CSA Regulation. The query raises concerns about proportionality and the completeness of data provided by Member States. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEP Seeks Clarity on Expert Group for Lawful Access to Encrypted Data
In question E-004528/2025 from 13 November 2025, MEP Moritz Körner (Renew) asks the Commission about the high-level expert group tasked with preparing a technology roadmap on lawful access to encrypted data. The query seeks assurances on the transparency and impartiality of the process and asks if the Commission will respect the group’s findings if it concludes no rights-compliant technological solution currently exists. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Pressed on Deleted Text Messages of President von der Leyen
Following a CJEU judgment, MEP Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle (Renew) submitted a priority question (P-003224/2025) on 12 August 2025. The question asks why text messages between the Commission President and Pfizer’s CEO were deleted after an access to documents request had been filed, and whether this practice undermines the principle of transparency and good governance. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Reiterates High-Risk Supplier Concerns in Spanish Contract
In a 19 November 2025 reply to question E-003287/25, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen addressed concerns over a Spanish Ministry of the Interior contract with Huawei for managing judicial wiretap data. The Commission reiterated its assessment that Huawei presents “materially higher risks” than other 5G suppliers and stated that the contract could create a dependency on a high-risk supplier in a critical sector, increasing the risk of foreign interference. The response emphasized that adherence to the Law Enforcement Directive (LED) is crucial for data security.
❗ Commission to Address ICT Supply Chain Risks in Cybersecurity Act Revision
Responding on 17 November 2025 to question E-003145/25, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen reaffirmed the Commission’s position that Huawei and ZTE pose higher risks as 5G suppliers. The Commission stated it will look more broadly at the security of ICT supply chains in the upcoming revision of the Cybersecurity Act. The goal is to “avoid critical dependencies and de-risk our ICT supply chains from high-risk suppliers,” in line with the ProtectEU Strategy.
❗ Commission Highlights EU Cybersecurity Preparedness and Crisis Exercises
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen, on 18 November 2025, outlined the EU’s efforts in cybersecurity preparedness in response to question E-003667/25. The Commission participates in regular crisis exercises, including those simulating ICT incidents. The reply noted that under the NIS2 Directive, the NIS Cooperation Group may conduct risk assessments of critical infrastructure supply chains. The Commission is also working on an ICT supply chain security toolbox to recommend mitigation measures.
❗ Commission Details Plans for EU Customs Data Hub
In a reply dated 18 November 2025 to question E-002583/25, Executive Vice-President Séjourné outlined the Commission’s proposal for an ambitious EU Customs Reform. A key part of this reform is the creation of an EU Customs Authority (EUCA) which will operate an EU Customs Data Hub. This digital tool is intended to facilitate real-time sharing of centralized information between Member State customs authorities to significantly improve cooperation and data exchange, including for vehicle registration data.
❓ MEPs Raise Alarm Over Security Risks of Chinese-Made Drones
MEP Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE) submitted a priority question (P-003323/2025) on 28 August 2025 regarding the use of Chinese-manufactured drones by EU security and emergency services. Citing technical vulnerabilities and risks of data exfiltration, the question asks what assessment the Commission has made and whether it intends to propose measures such as procurement guidelines or mandatory EU cybersecurity certification for drones used in sensitive sectors. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Queried on Post-Quantum Cybersecurity Strategy
Question E-004525/2025, submitted by MEP Moritz Körner (Renew) on 13 November 2025, asks for the Commission’s assessment of when quantum computing will pose a significant security threat to the EU’s digital infrastructure. The query also seeks information on the preparations being undertaken to ensure data remains secure and whether the Commission is coordinating with Member States and international partners on quantum-resistant encryption standards. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEP Asks About Strengthening ENISA’s Mandate and Funding
MEP Dimitris Tsiodras (PPE) asked the Commission in question E-004413/2025 on 7 November 2025 how it intends to strengthen the mandate and funding of the EU Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA). The question highlights the increasing number of cyberattacks and the new tasks assigned to the agency under recent legislation. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Questioned on Plans for Subsea Cable Repair Fleet
In question E-004479/2025 from 12 November 2025, MEP Bart Groothuis (Renew) asks about the progress on establishing a proposed multi-purpose ‘EU Cable Vessels Reserve Fleet’ for repairing subsea power and data cables. The query seeks details on the timeframe, administrative structure, and potential funding sources for this initiative, which is part of the EU Action Plan on Cable Security. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEP Seeks Information on Cybersecurity Funding for Water Infrastructure
MEP Andi Cristea (S&D) submitted a priority question (P-003002/2025) on 18 July 2025 regarding direct EU funding for water infrastructure cybersecurity. The question asks what financing is available for small and medium-sized operators and whether the water sector is explicitly included as critical infrastructure under the CER and NIS2 Directives. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Highlights EU Support for Rare Disease Diagnosis Research
In a 21 November 2025 reply to question E-003675/25 on newborn screening, Commissioner Várhelyi stated that the organisation of health services is a national competence. However, the Commission complements national policies by funding research through programmes like Horizon Europe. The response highlighted the ‘Screen4Care’ project, a €26 million public-private consortium aimed at shortening the time to diagnose rare diseases using genetic screening and digital technologies, noting its outcomes will inform future decisions at national or EU levels.
❓ MEPs Question Plans for a Digital Euro on a Public Blockchain
Question E-003785/2025, submitted on 30 September 2025 by MEPs Mary Khan (ESN) and Petra Steger (PfE), asks the Commission about reports that it wishes to fast-track the development of the digital euro, potentially on a public blockchain. The MEPs raise concerns about financial privacy and ask the Commission to rule out this possibility and clarify measures to protect citizens’ data. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Advocate for Protecting the Right to Use Cash
A broad cross-party group of MEPs submitted an oral question (O-000042/2025) on 19 November 2025 on protecting citizens’ right to make cash payments. The question asks the Commission how it will guarantee the right to pay in cash, ensure universal access to cash, and provide assurances that a potential digital euro will complement, not replace, physical currency. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Probed on Digitalisation of Medicine Leaflets
In a priority question (P-002901/2025) from 15 July 2025, MEPs raise concerns about the proposal to abolish paper package leaflets for medicinal products. They ask the Commission how it will ensure information remains accessible to all, particularly the elderly and digitally illiterate, and what impact has been considered on patient safety and the availability of medicines. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEP Questions Use of EU Recovery Funds for 5G Tower in Italy
MEP Susanna Ceccardi (PfE) asked the Commission in question E-004425/2025 on 7 November 2025 whether the planned construction of a new 5G tower in Pontedera, Italy, using NRRP funds, constitutes a waste of public money. The question notes that existing infrastructure is located nearby and that NRRP rules require its use to be prioritized. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Details Support for European AI Startups and Scaleups
On 17 November 2025, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen responded to question E-003657/2025 by detailing a range of initiatives to support AI innovation. The Commission highlighted the ‘AI Continent Action Plan’, financial support for ‘AI Factories’, the ‘GenAI4EU’ initiative, and the ‘EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy’. These programs aim to facilitate access to infrastructure, data, skills, and venture capital to foster the growth of European AI champions, with the Commission welcoming similar national initiatives that respect EU rules.
❗ Commission Affirms Commitment to Tech Sovereignty and Competitiveness
In a 19 November 2025 reply to question E-003445/25, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen outlined the EU’s strategy for digital transformation under the Digital Decade Policy Programme. The Commission is committed to advancing tech sovereignty with initiatives like the ‘AI Continent Action Plan’, the upcoming ‘Cloud and AI Development Act’, and ‘Chips Act 2.0’. The response also highlighted the ‘Startup and Scaleup Strategy’ and a streamlined approach within Horizon Europe to cover the full continuum from research to market.
❓ MEPs Seek Action to Protect European Silicon Industry
A group of S&D MEPs submitted a priority question (P-003550/2025) on 15 September 2025 regarding the crisis in the European silicon industry. Citing competition from Chinese overcapacity, the MEPs ask what mechanisms, including potential anti-dumping measures and specific support for SMEs, the Commission intends to implement to protect this strategic sector. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Confirms EU-US Negotiations on Security Information Exchange
In a reply dated 18 November 2025 to question E-002416/25, the Commission confirmed that on 23 July 2025, it submitted a recommendation to the Council to open negotiations for a framework agreement with the United States. The agreement would cover the exchange of information for security screenings and identity verifications related to border and visa procedures. This is linked to US requirements for participation in its Visa Waiver Program.
❓ MEPs Demand Clarity on DMA Enforcement Amid EU-US Trade Talks
A large, cross-party group of MEPs submitted a priority question (P-002647/2025) on 30 June 2025 following media reports that the EU was considering exempting US companies from DMA enforcement as part of trade negotiations. The MEPs ask for an unequivocal confirmation that the Commission will not delay or suspend DMA enforcement for US companies or use it as a trade instrument. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Probed on US Sanctions Affecting ICC’s Digital Services
MEP Alex Agius Saliba (S&D) asked the Commission in a priority question (P-002270/2025) on 5 June 2025 about the impact of US sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). The question cites reports that the ICC’s chief prosecutor lost access to his Microsoft email address due to the sanctions and asks what legal and diplomatic actions the Commission has taken to protect the functioning of the international rule of law. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ EU Reaffirms Commitment to Press Freedom and Safety of Journalists
In a 19 November 2025 reply to question E-003559/25, High Representative/Vice-President Kallas stated that the EU condemns attacks on journalists as violations of press freedom and international humanitarian protocols. The Commission affirmed it will continue to uphold the right to freedom of expression online and offline and will remain resolute in its support for media freedom and the right of journalists to work in safe conditions, engaging with governments and civil society worldwide to strengthen these principles.
❓ MEP Questions EU Funding for ‘Independent’ Fact-Checker
MEP Isabella Tovaglieri (PfE) submitted a priority question (P-003079/2025) on 24 July 2025 regarding EU funding for the fact-checking company Check First. The question asks for the exact amount of EU funds received by the company and questions whether it can be considered ‘independent’ when judging a political entity like the EU, given its participation in EU-funded programmes. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Raise Concerns Over Ideological Content on Netflix for Children
In question E-004306/2025 from 3 November 2025, MEPs from the PfE group express concern about content on Netflix promoting “sensitive ideological themes” to young audiences. They ask the Commission if it will ensure that ‘children’s’ profiles are effectively protected under the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) and if it intends to propose clearer rules to prevent unintentional exposure to controversial content. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Questioned on Plans for an EU Intelligence Service
Following media reports, MEPs Friedrich Pürner and Jan-Peter Warnke (NI) asked the Commission in question E-004556/2025 on 14 November 2025 about plans to establish an EU intelligence service. The query asks for the legal basis for such a service, how it would be compatible with the subsidiarity principle, and what scrutiny it would be subject to. A response from the Commission is pending.
The Commission’s replies from this period reveal a clear focus on the implementation and consolidation of its landmark digital legislative agenda. A primary cross-cutting theme is the consistent reference to existing legal frameworks—particularly the DSA, DMA, and GDPR—as the sufficient and appropriate tools to address a wide range of emerging digital challenges, from AI-generated content to platform moderation. This suggests an institutional posture focused on demonstrating the efficacy of its new rulebook rather than seeking new legislative solutions. The Commission frequently clarifies the division of powers, positioning itself as a facilitator and enforcer at the EU level while underscoring that ultimate legal judgments, for instance on illegal content, remain the competence of national courts.
A second major narrative woven through the Commission’s responses is that of technological sovereignty and strategic de-risking. This is most explicit in the firm stance on high-risk 5G suppliers like Huawei and ZTE, where the Commission frames restrictions as justified and necessary to avoid critical dependencies. This narrative extends to industrial policy, with replies highlighting a comprehensive strategy—from the AI Continent Action Plan to the Chips Act 2.0—designed to bolster the EU’s internal capacity and competitiveness in critical technologies. The Commission’s framing of the DMA’s impact on Apple’s product rollout further reinforces this, positioning the regulation as a tool to ensure fair competition for European innovators.
Overall, the Commission’s communications indicate a phase of regulatory consolidation, as indicated in previous PQ Insights. The institution presents itself as a diligent enforcer of its new digital laws, using them to shape market behaviour, protect fundamental rights, and advance the EU’s strategic autonomy in the digital sphere. The emphasis is on procedural correctness, the application of established principles, and leveraging a comprehensive toolkit to manage risks and foster a competitive, sovereign digital single market.
