Europe's Free Speech Failure and the "Censorship Industrial Complex" with Sarah B. Rogers

Davos Setting and Introduction to Sarah Rogers00:00

David and the host are staying in a 300-year-old house where they've both hit their heads on the beams. This is both their first Davos after 24 hours. They're staying far away, as if not wanted close. Sarah Rogers finally got an invitation that didn't get lost in the mail, referencing an inside joke from the pod. At USA House, thanks to sponsors. Sarah Rogers is Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy at the State Department.

Role of Public Diplomacy00:31

Friends and family asked "what is that?" Traditional diplomacy is between governments—ambassadors shake hands, make deals, solve wars. Public diplomacy addresses relationships between American government and foreign publics. Grown important with internet rise and Biden administration concerns about disinformation and malign influences on public views of America. Portfolio includes interacting with internet and information ecosystem, plus soft power like educational, cultural, sports diplomacy: World Cup, LA Olympics, Fulbright program.

Focus on Freedom of Speech Tensions with Europe02:00

Sarah focused on freedom of speech tensions between US standards and companies. US tech shifted back to stronger free speech after a period of moderation. Europe doesn't share this love.

Key European Regulations02:31

First official trip to Europe coincided with large fine on X under Digital Services Act (DSA). US has stronger free speech approach since Founding and First Amendment than most West. Internet makes communication transnational, so European technocratic regulations bump against US commitments.