The United States has launched a critical campaign against Europe’s approach to free speech, with Republican lawmakers and government officials accusing European leaders of stifling expression. This criticism comes despite the fact that some of America’s own politicians have been accused of restricting free speech.
In recent months, American officials have visited several European cities to scrutinize the continent’s regulations on digital speech. A State Department human rights report released last week identified “restrictions on freedom of expression” in France, Germany, and the UK as a concern. Vice President J.D. Vance has also spoken out about these issues, stating that European leaders are abandoning fundamental values such as free expression.
However, some argue that America itself should not criticize Europe for its stance on free speech, given the country’s own history of restricting expression. The US and Europe have distinct approaches to free speech, with Europe often viewing certain types of speech as more problematic than others. In contrast, America’s First Amendment protections prioritize even the most hateful or inflammatory rhetoric.
Despite these differences, both sides generally expanded free speech protections in the 20th century and reduced censorship by the time the Iron Curtain fell. The US criticism of European restrictions on free speech reflects a growing concern about illiberalism and the erosion of democratic values.
Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/08/europe-free-speech-republicans/683915