Germany Debates AI Threats to Democracy as Deepfakes and Disinformation Rise
Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig and attorney Christian Schertz met in Berlin to discuss the growing risks of AI to democracy. Their debate focused on legal measures, digital threats, and the need for stronger protections against disinformation and extremism.
Both speakers stressed that Germany must move faster to safeguard democratic values in an increasingly digital world.
During the event, Schertz highlighted the dangers of AI-generated content, particularly deepfakes, which he called a direct threat to democratic processes. He pushed for stricter rules, including mandatory filters on platforms to block illegal material. He also proposed ending online anonymity by requiring real-name verification for users.
Hubig, however, defended the right to anonymity online. Instead, she emphasised media literacy and personal responsibility as key tools in protecting democracy. Her ministry is currently working on a Digital Violence Protection Act to address enforcement gaps in existing laws. The two also disagreed on the far-right AfD party. Schertz called for an outright ban, warning against allowing democracy’s enemies to exploit its rules. Hubig took a more cautious approach, waiting for the Higher Administrative Court’s decision on the matter. Beyond national action, Hubig noted broader European efforts to strengthen AI infrastructure. The EU, led by Germany’s €1 billion IPCEI-AI initiative, is building AI factories and high-performance computing centres to reduce reliance on US firms. The newly established European AI Office, operational since June 2024, now enforces the AI Act and coordinates these projects across member states. She also mentioned that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is examining legal action against X over its Grok AI tool.
The debate underscored deep concerns about AI’s impact on democracy and the urgency of regulatory action. Germany’s upcoming Digital Violence Protection Act aims to fill legal gaps, while European initiatives seek to reduce dependence on foreign tech giants.
Meanwhile, disagreements remain over how to balance free speech, anonymity, and security in the face of emerging digital threats.
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