#democracy

The European Parliament voted on July 8, 2026, to allow mass scanning of private messages until April 3, 2028, despite a majority of MEPs opposing the measure. This decision represents a significant setback for digital privacy in the EU, as it permits warrantless scanning of private communications on platforms like Gmail, Snapchat, and Skype, setting a precedent for mass surveillance. The motion to reject the scanning law failed because it required an absolute majority of all 705 MEPs (361 votes), not just those present; only 314 voted against, 276 in favor, 17 abstentions, and 113 were absent.

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.