(New York, N.Y.) – Ahead of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s meeting with European decision-makers scheduled for Monday, 17 February, in Brussels, the Counter Extremism Project (CEP) warns against Zuckerberg’s lobbying efforts to water down upcoming digital policies such as the terrorist content file and Digital Service Act.

In its statement, Facebook confirms that the company’s CEO will meet with “European decision-makers in Brussels to discuss a framework for new rules and regulation for the internet.” Zuckerberg’s lobbying mission comes amidst growing concerns over online radicalization stimulating terrorist attacks around the world, and the EU’s response in form of Internet regulations to block proliferating extremist content online.

David Ibsen, Executive Director of the Counter Extremism Project (CEP) stated:

“Zuckerberg failed to deliver on his numerous pledges to address extremism on his platform, especially in the wake of the Christchurch massacre being streamed live on Facebook. Facebook is still hosting extremist content while attacks linked to online radicalization continue to occur. It is unacceptable that instead of taking responsibility for the terrorist material thriving on the platform, Zuckerberg is trying to thwart the EU authorities’ efforts to ensure a safer online environment for Europeans. We appeal to European decision-makers not to place the appeals of American tech oligarchs over the safety of European citizens.”