Juncker vows to fight \'fake news\' before European elections

Juncker vows to fight 'fake news' before European elections

AFP  |  Berlin 

has reportedly vowed to crack down on any 'fake news' in the build up to next month's European election campaigns.

"I will do this myself in the coming weeks before the election." Juncker, the commission's president, vigorously warned against manipulation attempts to sway voters - even from EU member states.

"I have already see attempts to influence the election of the by manipulation, which comes from several corners, not only from outside the EU," he added.

"States within the union are also trying to steer the electorate's will in a certain direction with

"The commission is prepared to fight it all off." Hungary's has been a vocal critic of Juncker, holding the EU responsible for allowing the to potentially fracture the union once the UK finally sees Brexit through.

"The Orban claims that I am responsible for Brexit -- although that is stuck down by evidence to the contrary," said in response.

"The also claims that I am to blame for the division of east and west in -- although the commission has done everything to fill the gap." Elections for the will take place from 23 to 26 May across the continent.

Voter turnout at elections has dropped steadily over the years, hitting a record low of 43 per cent at the last poll in 2014 when eurosceptic parties made major gains.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

First Published: Mon, April 22 2019. 18:15 IST