US tech giants go on the offensive: Why EU regulations are coming under pressure

The tension between the powerful technology companies from Silicon Valley and the European Union has reached new heights. US giants such as Meta, Facebook's parent company, have taken up opposition to two of Europe's most ambitious regulations: the AI Act and the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The EU has introduced strict regulations in recent years to curb the rapid progress in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and the market dominance of big tech companies. However, with the support of US politicians, most notably Vice President JD Vance, these companies are now trying to defuse the European legislation.

What is at stake for the EU and the tech world?

With the AI Act, the EU has set itself the goal of comprehensively regulating the use of AI - from development to application. Critics argue that these rules could restrict the pressure to innovate too much. In conjunction with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which serves to tame the market power of tech giants, the US tech elite feels increasingly restricted. Meta and 50 other companies have already signed an open letter warning of the economic consequences of these regulations. The US, especially under the Trump administration, supports these concerns and is putting pressure on Europe to relax the regulations.

The EU under pressure: will it stay the course or make concessions?

Despite increasing resistance, the EU is sticking to its line. Henna Virkkunen, Head of Technology at the EU Commission, emphasizes that the Union is "fully committed to enforcing its rules". In practice, however, the EU is becoming increasingly flexible. For example, an important AI liability directive was recently withdrawn in order to promote investment in the sector - a move that can be seen as a compromise. Experts such as Giorgos Verdi also warn that too much flexibility could weaken the EU as a negotiating partner.

A new power struggle in global technology policy

The question remains whether Europe can stand firm or whether the US tech companies will ultimately get their way. The political support from the US, which strengthens the resistance of companies, is particularly explosive. For the EU, this could be a balancing act between protecting its own interests and the urge not to unnecessarily burden international relations. One thing is certain, however: the globalization of technology will bring us many more disputes in this area.

EU in a dilemma: will it withstand pressure from tech giants or buckle?

The EU sees itself in a dilemma: on the one hand, it has a responsibility to steer technological progress and protect citizens' rights. On the other hand, it is dependent on the global market in order to remain economically competitive. However, the flexible concessions that have already been made could be interpreted as weakness in the long term. Europe should act more clearly and decisively - it is not just about economic interests, but also about security policy interests. Perhaps it is time to take a stronger stance so as not to be danced around by the powerful tech giants.