Big Tech in focus: How digital giants threaten democracy!

Big Tech in focus: How digital giants threaten democracy!

On June 23, 2025, the issue of the growing power of large digital platforms such as Amazon and Google remains central to the public discussion. Loud OE1 These companies generate immense revenue from online purchases and advertising and have the ability to significantly control the media content that users read, hear and see. Critics accuse these platforms of endangering democracy by acting as a kind of “digital coup.”

The growth of digitalization has also brought significant changes to the media landscape. At bpb It is pointed out that information gathering and opinion formation have migrated from traditional mass media to digital platforms over the years. Social networks, messenger services and search engines are now the main sources of information.

The role of the media in democracy

Media plays an essential role for democracy by influencing the formation of citizens' opinions. A lack of appropriate regulatory mechanisms for digital platforms is considered worrying. While laws and rules have been established for traditional media to ensure their role in society, digital services often remain unregulated. This has led to critical developments in which these platforms are seen as a potential threat to the democratic order.

A negative factor is the prevalence of false information, which can be spread widely through social networks. Content is often personalized and users play an active role in the visibility of information. This can create “filter bubbles” and “echo chambers” that distort opinion formation. In addition, social networks reward emotionally charged content, which polarizes and brutalizes public debate.

The responsibility of the platforms

The operators of digital platforms have house rules that allow them to regulate content according to their own economic interests. In traditional media, on the other hand, there are control mechanisms that are missing on digital platforms. Current initiatives such as the Network Enforcement Act in Germany attempt to counteract this situation. The discussion about the responsibility of platform providers and the role of users in the distribution of content is becoming increasingly important.

In view of these developments, a growing awareness of the role of digital platforms in society can be observed. There are increasing demands for more media literacy and critical assessment of information, especially in education. After all, people spend an average of over three and a half hours a day on the Internet, with younger users accessing digital content particularly frequently.

Overall, it is clear that digital platforms represent both opportunities and challenges for democracy, and there is an urgent need for action to regulate and manage their impact on society.