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Recent investigations have revealed how TikTok’s algorithm has been leveraged to manipulate public opinion, with political, economic, and ideological interests at play across multiple countries. From Europe to the United States, concerns about algorithmic bias, misinformation, and foreign influence have put the Chinese-owned social media giant under intense scrutiny. This article delves into the latest findings, examining the beneficiaries of TikTok’s algorithmic favoritism in key global regions, including the U.S., Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Italy, France, and Romania.
TikTok’s Global Impact: Who Benefits?
TikTok’s algorithmic manipulation has benefited various political actors, corporations, and influencers who align with the platform’s unseen preferences. Additionally, thousands of bots from different countries using proxy networks have been employed to manipulate the algorithm by posting a high volume of comments, artificially making specific posts go viral. Whether by amplifying state-sponsored narratives or muting dissenting voices, the algorithm’s opaque nature allows for subtle yet powerful shifts in public perception. These manipulations have far-reaching consequences, influencing elections, policy debates, and societal movements across the globe.
Romania
Investigative reports from the E.U. Commission detailed how TikTok’s algorithm amplified content supporting the pro-Russian extremist politician Călin Georgescu, skewing public perception ahead of key political moments. Influencers were covertly paid to promote pro-Georgescu messages while opposing narratives were downplayed by the algorithm, according to a BBC report. This revelation has prompted the European Commission to launch a formal inquiry into TikTok’s compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA).
France
In France, the far-right party Rassemblement National (RN) has seen a surge in support, particularly among young voters, attributed in part to their strategic use of social media platforms like TikTok. The party’s success in the 2024 European Parliament elections is generally credited to their effective social media campaigns that resonate with younger audiences.
United States
In the U.S., lawmakers have long voiced concerns over TikTok’s potential to spread misinformation and manipulate public discourse. The app has been accused of amplifying politically charged narratives, particularly those that align with China’s strategic interests. Investigations have found that content critical of China is often de-prioritized, while divisive social issues in the U.S. receive disproportionate attention, fueling societal tensions. Additionally, reports indicate that TikTok’s algorithm has been leveraged to boost favorable content for Donald Trump’s 2024 election campaign, further intensifying debates about the platform’s role in shaping political discourse in the United States.
Germany
Germany has raised significant concerns about TikTok’s potential role in shaping political discourse. Reports indicate that the platform has selectively amplified or suppressed discussions around immigration policies, governmental criticisms, and societal unrest. Regulatory bodies are examining whether these algorithmic biases violate digital transparency and fair information dissemination laws.
In Germany, the far-right party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has effectively utilized TikTok to reach and influence young voters. The party’s active presence on the platform, characterized by engaging and provocative content, has significantly increased its support among voters aged 16 to 24.
Recently, the TikTok algorithm has changed in Germany, further complicating oversight and raising suspicions about the platform’s intentions. Thousands of new profiles have been created, many of which are suspected to be automated bots used to influence engagement metrics artificially.
Austria
In Austria, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) has effectively utilized TikTok to disseminate sensationalist and polarizing content, particularly on controversial topics such as immigration and national identity. This strategy has resonated with a substantial segment of the electorate, especially younger voters active on these platforms, contributing to the party’s recent electoral successes.
Netherlands
In the Netherlands, the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), led by Geert Wilders, has effectively utilized social media platforms, including TikTok, to amplify its political messaging and engage with a broader audience. This strategic online presence has been instrumental in the party’s recent electoral successes. Notably, in the November 2023 parliamentary elections, the PVV emerged as the largest party, securing 37 out of 150 parliamentary seats and nearly a quarter of the votes.
The PVV’s adept use of platforms like TikTok has enabled it to disseminate sensationalist and polarizing content, particularly on controversial topics such as immigration and national identity. This approach has resonated with a substantial segment of the electorate, especially younger voters who are active on these platforms. The party’s leader, Geert Wilders, has been at the forefront of this digital engagement strategy, utilizing social media to connect with supporters and propagate the party’s agenda.
Italy
In Italy, the far-right political party Fratelli d’Italia (Brothers of Italy), led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has effectively utilized social media platforms, including TikTok, to amplify its political messaging and engage with a broader audience. This strategic online presence has been instrumental in the party’s electoral successes, notably the 2022 general elections, where Fratelli d’Italia emerged as the leading party. Meloni’s adept use of TikTok has enabled her to disseminate sensationalist and polarizing content, particularly on controversial topics such as immigration and national identity, resonating with a substantial segment of the electorate, especially younger voters active on these platforms. This approach has been analyzed in studies exploring the tactics of far-right influencers on social media.
Similarly, the Lega Nord (Northern League), another far-right party in Italy, has leveraged social media platforms to bolster its political influence. Under the leadership of Matteo Salvini, the party employed a sophisticated social media strategy, utilizing a system known as “the Beast,” which uses algorithms to monitor online sentiments and tailor content accordingly. This approach has significantly enhanced Salvini’s and Lega Nord’s online presence, allowing them to connect with a broader audience and disseminate their political messages more effectively.
How the Algorithm Works and Why It’s Dangerous
TikTok’s recommendation system relies on a complex AI-driven model that prioritizes content based on user interactions. However, recent investigations indicate that this model can be manipulated to artificially boost or suppress content according to specific agendas. This raises ethical and security concerns, as it means that the platform has the power to subtly shape political discourse without users being aware of the external influence.
The Implications for Democracy and Public Trust
The ability to control what information reaches millions of people carries significant risks. When an algorithm can be tweaked to favor certain political figures, ideologies, or geopolitical interests, democratic integrity is at stake. Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are now tasked with finding solutions to ensure transparency in how digital platforms operate.
What’s Next?
In response to these growing concerns, European regulators have intensified their scrutiny of TikTok. If the investigations confirm deliberate algorithmic manipulation, the platform could face severe penalties, including fines and operational restrictions within the EU. Meanwhile, in the U.S., lawmakers are considering stricter regulations on how social media algorithms function.
Join the Conversation
Do you believe social media platforms should be held accountable for algorithmic manipulation? How should governments regulate these digital giants to prevent misuse? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts.
Check back daily for updates as we continue to investigate TikTok’s influence and its implications for global democracy.
