EU Criticizes China and Russia for Spreading COVID-19 Misinformation

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] The European Union (EU) has blamed China and Russia as the sources of misinformation spreading about COVID-19 within Europe, condemning them for the spread of false information.

On the 10th (local time), according to Bloomberg News and others, the EU Commission released a report on its strategy to counter COVID-19 misinformation, stating that the two countries are "spreading false information while exerting influence in the EU and worldwide," and pointed out that "foreign powers are weakening democratic discourse."

The Guardian daily explained, "While Europe has previously criticized Russia in this regard, this is the first time China has been publicly identified as a source of misinformation."

The EU Commission emphasized that these actions aim to "weaken democratic debate, worsen social polarization, and improve their own image amid the COVID-19 situation." The Commission explained that misinformation or misleading information related to COVID-19 has surged, and among these were attempts by foreign actors to influence EU citizens and regional discussions.

Specifically, the report cited examples such as false health information like "washing hands does not help" and "COVID-19 is only dangerous to the elderly," as well as rumors blaming certain ethnic and religious groups for the spread of COVID-19.

V?ra Jourov?, Vice President of the EU Commission, said at a press conference, "Not responding seems very dangerous," adding, "The pandemic has shown us that fake information is extremely dangerous, kills citizens, and can weaken authorities' responses." She emphasized the need for a swift response to misinformation and related issues.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.