European Parliament President Roberta Metsola Advocates for Mass Surveillance Rejection Amidst 'Chat Control' Debate
Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, has been at the center of a significant debate regarding digital rights and privacy. On March 26, 2026, the European Parliament voted against extending the 'Chat Control 1.0' law, which allowed tech companies to scan private messages for child abuse material. Despite this rejection, Metsola suggested to the European Council to disregard the Parliament's decision, leading to a third vote. This resulted in the temporary derogation being reinstated, although the Parliament sent a strong message against mass surveillance. The ongoing negotiations for 'Chat Control 2.0' continue, with the Parliament opposing mass surveillance and the undermining of encryption.