The European Parliament unexpectedly revived the controversial Chat Control law during its second reading, and it passed the first procedural round, giving proponents a tactical advantage. This law would mandate mass surveillance of private messages, threatening end-to-end encryption and digital privacy. Its advancement could set a dangerous precedent for widespread surveillance in the EU. In the second reading, amendments or rejection require an absolute majority of 361 MEPs, while the law itself can pass with a simple majority of those present. Many MEPs have already left for summer break, making rejection harder.
Background
Chat Control, formally the EU CSA Regulation, was first proposed in 2022 to combat child sexual abuse material by requiring platforms to scan private messages. It has been highly controversial due to its impact on privacy and encryption. The temporary version expired in April 2026, but the permanent regulation is now being pushed again through aggressive procedural tactics.
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Discussion
Commenters expressed frustration over the procedural tactics, noting that unpopular laws are repeatedly re-introduced with minor tweaks. One user quoted Jean-Claude Juncker's remark about pushing laws step by step until there is no turning back. Others doubted that enough 'no' votes could be found to stop the law by Thursday.