This report covers Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and European Commission replies published in mid-September 2025. The period is marked by a significant focus on the implementation and enforcement of core digital legislation, particularly the Digital Services Act (DSA), with numerous questions probing its application to content moderation, e-commerce, and fundamental rights. Other key policy areas under scrutiny include the geopolitical dimensions of technology, such as cybersecurity risks from high-risk suppliers and trade dynamics with the US and China, alongside the digital aspects of sectoral policies in finance, health, and energy. The Commission’s responses consistently position existing legal frameworks as the primary tools for addressing emerging challenges, emphasizing a shift from policymaking to practical enforcement and coordination with Member States. These developments are critical for digital policy professionals, as they signal an intensified focus on compliance, risk mitigation for platforms, and the strategic importance of digital sovereignty in EU decision-making.
Platform Accountability & DSA Enforcement
❗ Commission Outlines Multi-Tool Strategy Against Illegal E-Commerce Platforms
In a reply to Georgios Aftias (PPE) on 15 September 2025, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen detailed the Commission’s approach to tackling market distortion from non-EU e-commerce platforms. The question (E-002576/25) raised concerns about unfair competition and dangerous products. The Commission confirmed that ensuring fair competition is a key priority, citing a holistic strategy that includes the Digital Services Act (DSA) for product safety compliance, ongoing proceedings against AliExpress and Temu, and coordination through the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Network. The response also highlighted the Market Surveillance Regulation and new VAT rules for imported goods as additional layers of enforcement, indicating a multi-faceted regulatory and customs approach rather than a single new measure.
❗ Commission Confirms DSA Framework for Tackling Gender-Based Violence Online
Executive Vice-President Virkkunen, responding on 18 September 2025 to a question from Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR) and others, clarified the EU’s strategy for addressing online gender-based violence (GBV). The question (E-003057/25) inquired about a potential code of conduct under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The Commission stated that the DSA already includes measures to address GBV, such as notice and action mechanisms for illegal content and systemic risk mitigation obligations for Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs). While acknowledging that voluntary codes of conduct are a possibility under the DSA, the reply frames existing legislation, alongside the Violence Against Women (VAW) Directive, as the primary framework for protecting women online.
❓ MEPs Probe Use of eID to Combat Digital Violence on High-Risk Platforms
A group of MEPs led by Valentina Palmisano (The Left) submitted a question on 15 September 2025 (E-003551/2025) asking if the Commission will consider introducing a European Digital Identity (eID) requirement for users uploading content to high-risk platforms. Citing recent scandals involving misogynistic forums, the question suggests using eID to create verified pseudonyms, thereby aiding authorities in tackling anonymity-driven abuse while protecting privacy. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ MEPs Question Platform Accountability for Sexist and Violent Content
In a question submitted on 19 September 2025 (E-003638/2025), MEPs Alessandra Moretti (S&D) and Lina Gálvez (S&D) pressed the Commission on the responsibilities of platform operators, particularly pornographic sites, for user-published content. The question calls for ensuring the correct application of existing measures, improving traceability of perpetrators, and ordering the immediate removal of harmful content in coordination with national authorities. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Scrutiny Over Alleged French Government Censorship Request Under DSA
MEP Virginie Joron (PfE) questioned the Commission on 15 September 2025 (E-003535/2025) about reports that the French government directed Twitter (X) to remove a satirical post by a US national concerning French immigration policy. The question asks whether the Digital Services Act (DSA) provides a mandate for Member States to request global censorship of political criticism and seeks clarity on the scope of such powers. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Commission Queried on Classification of Political Speech and Satire Under DSA
A large cross-party group of MEPs, led by Ondřej Knotek (PfE), submitted a question on 18 September 2025 (E-003616/2025) regarding the classification of political expressions as illegal hate speech under the Digital Services Act. The question references a closed workshop where the phrase ‘we need to take back our country’ was allegedly classified as hate speech and asks how the DSA safeguards lawful political expression, including satire and humour. A response from the Commission is pending.
AI & Copyright
❓ MEPs Seek Reassurance on Legal Basis for AI Model Training
Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR) asked the Commission on 17 September 2025 (E-003582/2025) to reaffirm its position on the legal basis for training AI models under the EU Copyright Directive. The question references a draft parliamentary report that appears to question whether Article 4 of the Directive was intended to regulate AI training. The MEP seeks confirmation that the existing legal framework is sound and competitive, and asks if the Commission plans to introduce more stringent rules. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Defends Sanctions for Disinformation as Compliant with Fundamental Rights
In a 19 September 2025 reply to Michael von der Schulenburg (NI), High Representative/Vice-President Kallas defended the EU’s use of sanctions against individuals for disinformation. The question (E-003133/25) raised concerns about the impact on freedom of expression. The Commission asserted that its sanctions are “preventive, reversible, gradual, and proportionate,” and are not targeted at individuals merely exercising free speech. The reply emphasized that listings are based on evidence of involvement in information manipulation attributable to the Russian government and are subject to legal challenges and regular review, ensuring compliance with international law and fundamental freedoms.
❓ Fundamental Rights Implications of ‘Chat Control 2.0’ Under Scrutiny
MEP Ewa Zajączkowska-Hernik (ESN) submitted a question on 19 September 2025 (E-003645/2025) concerning the Commission’s proposal on preventing child sexual abuse, dubbed ‘Chat Control 2.0’. The question presses the Commission to assess how the proposed compulsory mass scanning of private communications, including encrypted messages, interferes with the rights to privacy, data protection, and freedom of expression as guaranteed by the Charter of Fundamental Rights. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Question Commission Oversight of AI in Content Moderation
Following TikTok’s announcement that it would replace content moderators with AI, Catherine Griset (PfE) asked the Commission on 16 September 2025 (E-003564/2025) what steps it will take to ensure these AI systems are not biased. The question seeks assurances that the Commission will scrutinize the algorithms for political influence and asks whether more information will be provided to the public on how these moderation systems are defined. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗ Commission Reaffirms Stance on High-Risk 5G Suppliers and Flags Cybersecurity Act Revision
Responding to a question concerning a Spanish Ministry contract with Huawei, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen on 17 September 2025 reiterated the Commission’s position that Huawei and ZTE present “materially higher risks than other 5G suppliers.” The reply (E-003060/25) states that Member State decisions to restrict or exclude these suppliers are justified and compliant with the 5G Toolbox. The Commission also announced it will address the security of ICT supply chains more broadly in the upcoming revision of the Cybersecurity Act to avoid critical dependencies and de-risk from high-risk suppliers.
❓ MEPs Raise Concerns Over Security of Electronic Devices from China
On 17 September 2025, Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR) submitted a question (E-003576/2025) about the risks associated with electronic components imported from China, citing reports of hidden chips enabling unauthorized data access. The question asks if the Commission plans mandatory security audits for ICT products used in critical infrastructure and whether it is considering a European security certification mechanism to limit reliance on non-EU suppliers. A response is pending.
❓ Commission Probed on Cross-Border Data Access for Crime Prevention
A question from Raquel García Hermida-Van Der Walle (Renew) and other MEPs on 16 September 2025 (E-003558/2025) highlights the inability of local authorities to access integrity-related information from other Member States to screen for organized crime infiltration in the legal economy. The MEPs ask if the Commission is aware of this vulnerability and if it intends to develop a harmonized EU legal framework to facilitate such cross-border cooperation. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Call for Action on Wi-Fi Calling Restrictions During EU Roaming
Andi Cristea (S&D) asked the Commission on 17 September 2025 (E-003604/2025) to address the blocking of Wi-Fi calling (VoWiF) services by most mobile operators when users are roaming within the EU. The question highlights the impact on the digital single market and public safety, as VoWiF can be the only way to reach emergency services in areas with poor mobile coverage. The MEP asks if the Commission will assess the impact and propose a legislative framework to mandate the service. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Clarifies Plans for Digital Rail Ticketing Framework
In a 19 September 2025 reply to Günther Sidl (S&D), Commissioner Tzitzikostas clarified plans for an EU-wide rail booking system. The question (E-003070/25) referenced a 2025 timeline for a single booking tool. The Commissioner stated that the Commission is preparing new legislation for early 2026, including a Multimodal Digital Mobility Services (MDMS) Regulation and a Single Digital Booking and Ticketing (SDBT) Regulation. The goal is not to create a single EU tool, but rather to establish the conditions for operators and platforms to offer more multimodal tickets, ensuring compatibility with existing industry initiatives like the Open Sales and Distribution Model (OSDM).
❗ Commission Defers to National Authorities on Italian Digital Payment Fees
Responding on 16 September 2025 to Cristina Guarda (Verts/ALE), Commissioner Albuquerque addressed the issue of fees charged for card payments on Italy’s public administration platform, pagoPA. The question (E-003082/25) asked if these fees comply with the Payment Services Directive (PSD2). The Commission stated it lacks sufficient information to evaluate the case but clarified that the Italian Central Bank is the designated national authority responsible for enforcing PSD2 provisions on surcharging. The reply underscores that Member States have the primary responsibility for monitoring and enforcement.
❗ Commission Outlines Costs and Revenue Model for Digital Euro
Commissioner Dombrovskis, in a reply on 19 September 2025 to Auke Zijlstra (PfE), addressed concerns about the costs for banks of introducing the digital euro. The question (E-002443/25) suggested a lack of sound calculations from the ECB. The Commission confirmed it conducted an impact assessment, estimating one-off costs for payment service providers of up to EUR 5.4 billion. However, the reply also detailed a revenue model where banks will earn Inter-PSP fees, similar to card payments, which is intended to cover their costs and allow for revenue generation from value-added services.
❗ Commission Links Energy Security to Digital and Green Transition
In a 19 September 2025 response to Georg Mayer (PfE) and Harald Vilimsky (PfE) regarding blackouts on the Iberian Peninsula, Commissioner Jørgensen defended the Green Deal’s objectives. The question (E-003018/25) suggested the energy transition was jeopardizing grid stability. The Commission countered that reliance on imported fossil fuels causes price volatility and vulnerability, framing the shift to domestic clean energy as essential for strategic autonomy and energy security. The reply also noted that Member States retain a central role in protecting critical infrastructure under existing EU legislation like the NIS2 Directive.
❓ MEPs Seek Details on New Global Health Resilience Initiative
Leire Pajín (S&D) and Vytenis Povilas Andriukaitis (S&D) submitted a question on 16 September 2025 (E-003557/2025) asking for more details on the global health resilience initiative announced by President von der Leyen. The initiative aims to tackle global health disinformation and strengthen preparedness. The MEPs are seeking clarity on its scope, objectives, timeline, and funding mechanisms. A response is pending.
❓ Commission Questioned on Consumer Rights for Discontinued Video Games
Following the ‘Stop Killing Games’ European Citizens’ Initiative, Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR) asked the Commission on 17 September 2025 (E-003581/2025) about the practice of publishers disabling servers for legally purchased video games. The question probes whether current licensing provisions are compatible with EU consumer law and asks if the Commission is considering legislation to enable users to launch private servers for unsupported games. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Press for Action on Short-Term Rental Platforms
A group of S&D MEPs led by Dario Nardella asked the Commission on 19 September 2025 (E-003637/2025) for details on its announced legal initiative on short-term rentals (STRs). The question seeks to clarify the type of legislative initiative, its timeline, and whether the Commission has assessed the link between STR platforms and housing affordability across the EU. A response is pending.
❓ Commission Queried on Support for ME/CFS Research and Data Collection
On 18 September 2025, Romana Jerković (S&D) questioned the Commission (E-003626/2025) on the lack of progress following a 2020 European Parliament resolution on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The question asks how the Commission is supporting Member States in establishing a harmonized data collection system and integrating ME/CFS education into medical curricula. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Affirms Support for Open Access to Publicly Funded Research
In a 16 September 2025 reply to Dario Tamburrano (The Left) and others, Commissioner Zaharieva outlined the Commission’s actions to support open access to research. The question (E-002842/25) concerned the implementation of a ‘secondary publication right’ (SPR). The Commission confirmed it is analyzing policy options, including an EU-wide SPR, and highlighted that immediate open access is already mandatory for Horizon Europe beneficiaries. The response also pointed to direct financial support for non-profit open access infrastructures and the Commission’s own publishing service, Open Research Europe (ORE), as key tools to promote equitable alternatives.
❗ Commission Highlights Support Instruments for EU Battery Strategy Amid Project Suspension
Executive Vice-President Séjourné responded on 16 September 2025 to a question from Pasquale Tridico (The Left) and others about the suspension of the ACC gigafactory project in Termoli, Italy. The question (E-002954/25) raised concerns for the EU’s battery manufacturing capacity. The Commission confirmed it is aware of the situation and is monitoring developments through the European Battery Alliance. The reply pointed to several available support instruments, including the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework, the Innovation Fund, and the Battery Booster under the Automotive Action Plan, while noting that it is for Italy to decide whether to support the investment.
❓ MEPs Question EU Strategy on Critical Raw Materials and Dependence on China
Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR) submitted a question on 17 September 2025 (E-003577/2025) asking for specific steps the Commission will take to accelerate the exploitation of critical raw material deposits within the EU and reduce dependence on China. The question probes whether the Commission will create mechanisms to fast-track administrative procedures and if it is considering a mandatory EU-wide critical raw materials reserve. A response is pending.
❓ Commission Asked About Support for Kiruna Relocation Linked to Strategic Projects
On 15 September 2025, Sofie Eriksson (S&D) questioned the Commission (E-003546/2025) on its role in managing the consequences of the relocation of Kiruna, Sweden, driven by the expansion of a mine crucial for rare earth elements. The question asks what measures and support instruments the Commission will mobilize to assist affected citizens, given the project’s strategic importance for the EU’s green industrial strategy and the STEP platform. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Confirms Review of Israel’s Compliance with Association Agreement, Proposes Partial Horizon Europe Suspension
In a reply dated 16 September 2025, High Representative/Vice-President Kallas confirmed that the EU has reviewed Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. The response (E-003201/25) stated the review concluded there are “indications that Israel would be in breach of Article 2.” Following this, the Commission proposed a Council Decision on 29 July 2025 to partially suspend Israel’s participation in the Horizon Europe research program, specifically targeting the European Innovation Council’s Accelerator. This action underscores the Commission’s use of research and innovation partnerships as a tool in its foreign policy engagements.
❗ Commission Monitoring Potential Circumvention of EV Tariffs via Türkiye
Responding on 17 September 2025 to a question on Chinese electric vehicle (EV) production in Türkiye, Commissioner Šefčovič stated that the Commission is committed to maintaining existing trade defence measures. The reply (E-003035/25) noted that while investments are underway in Türkiye, circumvention cannot be considered at this stage as production and exports to the EU have not yet commenced. However, the Commission affirmed it will monitor developments closely and may initiate an anti-circumvention investigation if sufficient evidence emerges, potentially extending duties to circumvented imports.
❗ Commission Acknowledges Foreign Interference Threat, Points to Upcoming European Democracy Shield
High Representative/Vice-President Kallas, in a 17 September 2025 reply regarding reports of China’s unofficial police stations in Member States, stated that the Commission is closely following the issue and opposes any attempted foreign interference. The response (E-002962/25) emphasized that Member States have primary competence for internal security but that the Commission stands ready to support them. The reply also announced that the Commission will unveil a “European Democracy Shield” to provide a strategic approach to safeguarding democracy in the EU.
❗ Commission Lists Countries Objecting to International Health Regulations Amendments
In a 19 September 2025 reply to Gerald Hauser (PfE), Commissioner Várhelyi provided an update on Member State positions regarding the 2024 amendments to the World Health Organisation’s International Health Regulations (IHR). The question (E-003072/25) sought a list of objecting countries. The Commission reported that, based on available information, Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Canada, the Czech Republic, Germany, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, the Philippines, and the USA have notified rejections to the WHO. The reply noted that most of these rejections were explained by the need to complete domestic processes and could potentially be withdrawn later.
❓ MEPs Press Commission on Alleged Softening of EU Digital Rules in US Trade Talks
Petra Steger (PfE) and Mary Khan (ESN) submitted a follow-up question on 20 September 2025 (E-003643/2025) challenging a previous Commission denial that the DSA and DMA were part of trade negotiation dynamics with the US. Citing media reports, the MEPs ask why the Commission is denying that the digital acts were raised during talks and whether a joint committee to give US tech companies a say in market rules was discussed. A response is pending.
❓ Commission Questioned on GDPR Implications of Israeli Rules for NGOs
A group of MEPs led by Cecilia Strada (S&D) asked the Commission on 19 September 2025 (E-003642/2025) about new Israeli registration rules requiring international NGOs to provide extensive personal data on their employees. The question asks if these requirements violate the GDPR and the conditions for Israel’s data adequacy status, and whether the Commission will press Israel to withdraw the rules or suspend the adequacy decision. A response is pending.
❗ Commission Clarifies E-invoicing Directive Does Not Mandate PEPPOL Network
In a 19 September 2025 reply to Liesbet Sommen (PPE), Commissioner Hoekstra addressed the challenges smaller non-profit associations face with electronic invoicing. The question (E-002955/25) focused on the PEPPOL network. The Commission clarified that while Council Directive (EU) 2025/516 imposes e-invoicing for B2B intra-Community transactions, it does not mandate the use of the PEPPOL network. The reply also noted that Member States can relieve certain operators from the obligation for domestic transactions and can offer support such as free public portals. The upcoming European Business Wallet initiative is also expected to reduce the administrative burden.
❓ MEPs Question Disinformation Surrounding GPS Interference on von der Leyen’s Flight
An oral question submitted on 17 September 2025 by Petra Steger (PfE) and others (O-000030/2025) challenges the Commission’s public confirmation of severe GPS interference, allegedly caused by Russia, on President von der Leyen’s flight. Citing flight tracking data and other reports that contradict the initial narrative, the MEPs ask why the Commission confirmed what they term “fake news” and what concrete evidence it has of Russia’s responsibility. A response is pending.
❓ Commission Probed on Customs Enforcement for Small E-Commerce Parcels
Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE) asked the Commission on 17 September 2025 (E-003597/2025) what steps it will take to strengthen and harmonize customs enforcement for small e-commerce parcels. The question highlights a report showing a massive influx of parcels under the EUR 150 customs duty threshold with very low detection rates for non-compliant products, posing a risk to consumer safety. A response is pending.
❓ MEPs Raise Concerns About EU Deforestation Regulation’s Impact on Polish Wood Industry
On 17 September 2025, Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR) submitted a question (E-003580/2025) regarding the impact of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) on the Polish wood industry. The question argues that the due diligence and geolocation data requirements are disproportionate for countries like Poland where deforestation is not an issue, and asks if simplified compliance procedures are being considered. A response is pending.
❓ Justification Sought for Double Documentation Burden Under EUDR/EUTR
Christine Anderson (ESN) questioned the Commission on 17 September 2025 (E-003593/2025) about the legal grounds for requiring internal market documentation under the EU Timber and Deforestation Regulations (EUTR/EUDR) on top of checks at the EU’s external borders. The question asks the Commission to justify this “double burden” and whether it plans to remove the internal market obligations after the digital system (EUDR-IS/TRACES) is introduced. A response is pending.
❓ Commission Asked to Support Water Resilience and Network Digitalisation in Southern Europe
Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI) submitted a question on 17 September 2025 (E-003617/2025) concerning water scarcity in Southern Europe, particularly Greece. The question asks what measures the Commission will take to impose water loss limits and digitalise water networks, and how it will support infrastructure investments through instruments like REPowerEU. A response is pending.
The Commission’s replies from mid-September 2025 reveal a clear institutional posture focused on the implementation and enforcement of existing legal frameworks. When confronted with challenges ranging from illegal e-commerce and online gender-based violence to the stability of energy grids, the Commission consistently points to recently enacted legislation like the Digital Services Act, the Market Surveillance Regulation, and the NIS2 Directive as the primary and sufficient tools for resolution. This suggests a deliberate strategy to consolidate the current regulatory landscape rather than proposing new initiatives, framing its role as one of monitoring, coordination, and targeted enforcement against high-profile actors like AliExpress and Temu.
A second cross-cutting theme is the careful delineation of competencies between the EU and Member States. In responses concerning digital payment fees in Italy or objections to international health regulations, the Commission positions itself as a guardian of the Treaties but underscores that primary responsibility for enforcement and national decision-making rests with Member State authorities. This indicates that for many digital policy files, effective advocacy will require a dual-level approach, engaging both Brussels and national capitals.
Finally, the Commission’s answers articulate a robust geopolitical narrative of strategic autonomy and de-risking, particularly in relation to China. Replies concerning 5G suppliers, potential trade-defence circumvention, and foreign interference are framed through a security lens, linking digital and industrial policy directly to the EU’s capacity to act independently and protect its democratic processes. The planned revision of the Cybersecurity Act and the announcement of a “European Democracy Shield” signal that this focus on technological sovereignty and resilience against systemic rivals will remain a central pillar of the Commission’s agenda.
