Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has issued a cautionary statement regarding the growing power of social media algorithms, which he terms as “algorithm fascism.” He argues that this phenomenon is blurring the lines between truth and misinformation, a point he emphasized while speaking at the Second Communication Council in Ankara. According to Erdoğan, digital platforms now have a significant role in shaping public opinion, making it increasingly difficult for people to differentiate between facts and perceptions.
Highlighting the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and communication technologies, Erdoğan noted that while these developments have revolutionized information sharing, they have also amplified the spread of disinformation. He expressed concern that social media has the potential to influence public thought, the interpretation of events, and even the reshaping of historical narratives, which could pose risks to cultural values and social cohesion.
The Communication Council, as described by Erdoğan, serves as a platform to develop Türkiye’s future communication strategy. It aims to bring together government officials, academics, media representatives, and civil society experts to strengthen public communication policies in line with the country’s long-term vision. This initiative reflects an effort to navigate the challenges posed by the digital landscape.
In addition to his remarks on social media, Erdoğan addressed the ongoing investigation into the Ahbap charity. He assured that authorities are actively pursuing legal proceedings against those accused of exploiting public trust following the 2023 earthquakes. This statement underscores the government’s commitment to holding individuals accountable in the wake of disaster-related misconduct.