Farmers’ protest heavily promoted on TikTok and Facebook. Vasile Dîncu calls for mechanisms to limit algorithmic amplification

MEP Vasile Dîncu warns that the algorithms of major online platforms are increasingly influencing democracies by rapidly amplifying emotional, polarizing and extremist messages. He made the statements to Mediafax after the protest by farmers and livestock breeders on September 15, organized in Bucharest and heavily promoted on TikTok and Facebook.

Dîncu argues that algorithms are not neutral and favor content that generates strong reactions. Before the demonstration, both calls to participate and conspiracy theories and false information circulated, including the claim that the structures around Parliament were barricades.

The MEP says democracies risk being influenced more by technical mechanisms than by the diversity of opinions. He also referred to Romania’s 2024 presidential campaign, when a discourse known for years rapidly gained major visibility.

Dîncu proposes European mechanisms to “brake” the abnormal amplification of messages, comparable to the temporary suspension of trading on stock exchanges during periods of extreme volatility. The recommendation is included in the report of the Committee on the European Democracy Shield, adopted in June and submitted to the European Parliament on August 25, 2026. Dîncu also announced plans to prepare a letter to the European Commission.