Meta assures that “it is not true” that they have threatened to leave Europe and close both Facebook and Instagram on the continent, despite the statements published in its annual report. The company, in particular, revealed that if they could not transfer data from European users to the United States, they could not offer “some of their most important products in Europe”, such as both social networks.
Markus Reinisch, Meta's vice president for public policy in Europe, suggests in a statement that the statements published in the 10-K report have been misunderstood. He alleges that the company, like any other publicly traded company, is required to share “material risks” with its investors. Therefore, and as they did on other occasions, in the report they showed their “uncertainty” about the regulation of the transfer of data of users from the European Union to the United States and the damages what this measure would entail for Meta. But this does not mean that they plan to close Facebook and Instagram in Europe.
“We have absolutely no desire to withdraw from Europe; of course not. But the simple reality is that Meta, like many other companies, organizations and services, relies on data transfers between the EU and the United States to operate our services. global”.
Reinisch assures in a statement.
Meta maintains that the transfer of data is necessary for the operation of its services
Meta, despite refusing to pay the European market, continues to show concern about the possible suspension of data transfers between Europe and the United States. It maintains that the mechanisms for transferring user data between the two regions “support the global economy and support many of the services that are essential for day-to-day life.” The European Commission, however, doubts that Privacy Shield, the solution to be able to carry out these transfers, maintains the privacy guarantees of the data of European users once they reach the United States. In fact, this agreement was annulled in 2020 by the Court of Justice of the European Union. Meta continues to demand a solution that does not limit this practice.
“Like other international and European companies, brands and trade organizations, we look forward to seeing continued progress in negotiations for a replacement Privacy Shield to protect transatlantic data transfers, ensure strong privacy protections and keep people connected.” global communities, economies, businesses and families”.
