Meta Threatens to End Europe's Facebook & Instagram If No Data Deal

FEB 10 2022·Updated FEB 6 2024

Story

Image credit: Axios

The Facts

Meta has threatened to pull FB and IG from Europe if prohibited from transferring user data back to the US.
Al Jazeera
The previous Privacy Shield agreement, which permitted data transfer, was ruled invalid by the ECJ in July 2020.
Al Jazeera
In its annual report published last week, Meta said that, without standard contractual clauses (SCCs) to shift data, it likely won't be able to offer significant products in Europe.
Al Jazeera
A new data-sharing agreement hasn't yet been agreed.
Axios
Meta have clarifed, however, that they currently have "no desire and no plans to withdraw from Europe."
Business Insider

Sources Split

LEFT

CENTER

RIGHT

ESTAB
CRIT

CENTER

PRO
ESTAB

The Spin

Narrative A

Meta is attempting to blackmail the EU into lowering its data protection standards. The company has spent too long benefiting from intrusive surveillance practices.

Business Insider

Narrative B

Meta is simply stating the reality that without the ability to share data between the US and EU, they cannot legally provide their services. The pressure is now on lawmakers to find a solution and alleviate the threat to businesses.

Axios