Emmanuel Macron calls for debate on internet threats and social media’s impact on democracy
French President Emmanuel Macron has announced the launch of a national debate on the influence of the internet and social media on democracy, aiming to address their growing impact on public discourse, disinformation, and social cohesion, the Élysée said on Monday.
Macron will chair a meeting on Tuesday titled “Democracy Under the Test of Networks and Algorithms”, bringing together experts, researchers, business leaders, and civil society representatives. According to a presidential adviser, the head of state wants to “create the conditions for an informed and calm debate,” amid concerns that online platforms are reshaping how citizens engage in politics.
Confronting disinformation and foreign interference
The French president warned that social media platforms tend to amplify negative emotions and viral outrage over reasoned argument, threatening the foundations of democratic dialogue. He is also expected to address the issues of foreign interference and algorithmic manipulation ahead of the 2026 municipal and 2027 presidential elections.
Among the participants at the event will be Gérald Bronner, a sociologist and head of the Commission on Democratic Disruptions in the Digital Age, and Hugo Micheron, a specialist on Islamist influence online.
Later on Tuesday, Macron will chair a Presidential Science Council focused on youth mental health in the digital era, followed by a dinner with global technology leaders to discuss the regulation of social media and artificial intelligence (AI) and their influence on democratic debate.
A global initiative for a digital majority
Macron also plans to promote an international coalition of world leaders to build what he calls a “digital democratic majority” capable of tackling online manipulation and disinformation. He is expected to raise the issue again at the Paris Peace Forum, where he will speak about global responses to disinformation and the defense of Europe’s digital sovereignty.
According to the Élysée, Macron’s initiative reflects his “constitutional duty to safeguard democratic institutions,” even though he cannot run again in 2027. His goal, the presidency said, is to ensure that upcoming elections take place in a transparent and secure digital environment.
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