‘Chat control’ plan scrapped

The European Union has dropped its controversial proposal to force messaging apps like WhatsApp to scan private messages for child abuse. A good decision, says the N-VA.

“The goal was legitimate, but the method was completely wrong,” says MP Michael Freilich. “Forcing encrypted messages to be opened would have violated the privacy of millions of citizens, without any guarantee of increased safety. We’ve opposed this proposal from the very beginning, and we’re relieved to see it off the table now.”

“The fight against child abuse remains a top priority—but not at the expense of our fundamental rights. For the N-VA, that has never been up for debate.”