Big Tech in the crosshairs: Are Amazon and Google endangering our democracy?

Big Tech in the crosshairs: Are Amazon and Google endangering our democracy?

On July 1, 2025, it will become clear that the power of large digital platforms such as Amazon, Google and Meta is becoming increasingly important not only in the economy, but also in democracy. These companies are perceived as new titans, generating significant revenue through online commerce and advertising. But as they shape the economic landscape, there are critical voices warning that their dominance threatens democracy. As ORF reports, this influence has even been described as a “digital coup d’état” because the platforms largely determine what users can read, hear and see.

But the discussion about the influence of tech companies goes far beyond the past. Online platforms such as X, TikTok and YouTube challenge public debate and freedom of expression. In their contributions, experts such as Anna Jobin and Manuel Puppis address the challenges that come with regulating these platforms. In Europe, for example, according to the scientists, restrictions on expression are permitted as long as they serve the public interest. However, regulation is a hot potato, particularly when it comes to how to deal with legal but potentially harmful content.

The dangers of platform power

The tech giants are often the focus of criticism as a threat to competition and freedom. A comment from the German Institute for Economic Research makes it clear that only a few companies not only want to control markets, but also actively influence the political discourse. Mark Zuckerberg, for example, is pushing for the prevention of competition sanctions against US technology companies. This is happening in an environment where he has even announced that he will forego fact-checking - creating space for disinformation. Let's ask ourselves what this means for our democracy!

The connection between economic power and politics is no longer a secret. Entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos use their platforms not only for business success, but also to influence political decisions. Musk censors content on X, while Bezos controls the Washington Post, where important political opinions are formed. Experts call these developments the emergence of a plutocracy that endangers the foundations of a democratic society.

The search for solutions

There are calls for structural reforms to decentralize the power of these corporations and ensure fair competition. The voices are becoming louder saying that not only are competition proceedings against Google and Co. necessary, but also real, profound changes are required to break the monopolistic dynamics. Who really benefits from the current conditions and who is marginalized? These questions remain to be clarified.

There is still a lot to do in terms of regulation. The EU has already created regulations such as the Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act, but many platforms continue to operate on the sidelines of the law. Despite all efforts towards digital self-defense and media literacy, it remains to be noted that the solutions cannot only be sought at the individual level, but require comprehensive structural change.

We live in a time when it is crucial to reshape the digital landscape so that freedom of expression and competition in a democratic society are not left behind. The ball is now in the court of political decision-makers to set the right course - because the issue affects us all.

For further information and deeper insights on this topic, take a look at the articles from ORF, University of Freiburg and DIW.