Elon Musk has recently attracted attention for his connections to controversial figures such as British activist Tommy Robinson and the German far-right party Alternativ for Deutschland. These interactions have raised concerns about the potential to encourage xenophobia and racism.
Connection to Tommy Robinson
In January 2025, Musk expressed support for Tommy Robinson, founder of the English Defense League, known for his anti-Islamic views. Musk called for Robinson’s release, which drew criticism from the British government and public. In response, Mask criticised the British government and called for new elections in the country.
Interview with AfD party leader
Musk interviewed Alice Weidel, the leader of Germany’s far-right AfD party, in January 2025. During the conversation, Musk expressed his support for the party, which has been causing concern in Germany and across Europe. The AfD is known for its anti-immigration and Eurosceptic stances and its ties to far-right movements such as nationalist and populist groups, including those with links to white supremacist ideologies.
Musk touched on a variety of topics, but the most interesting topics related to British politics, including concerns about the sexual abuse of women and criticism of the German bureaucracy. These are important issues worth discussing.
Musk’s support for Tommy Robinson and the AfDparty has raised concerns about the legitimisation of extremist ideologies and the potential for increased tensions in society. In addition, interference in the political processes of other countries could lead to diplomatic complications and the undermining of democratic institutions. In addition, his support for the AfD in Germany was perceived as interference in European politics and was condemned.
Criticism from Europe
Musk’s statements have also drawn criticism from other European leaders.
French President Emmanuel Macron accused Musk of election meddling, asking: "Who could have imagined 10 years ago that the owner of one of the world's largest social networks would directly interfere in elections, including in Germany?"
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store expressed concern about the American billionaire’s involvement in political affairs in countries outside the United States.
History of Parallels
Historically, supporting radical ideologies can have serious consequences. In the 1930s, the rise of fascism in Europe, driven by economic and social crises, led to catastrophic events such as World War II and the Holocaust. In this context, Elon Musk’s actions raise many questions.
Free Speech: What are the Limits?
Musk has always been a proponent of “free speech,” which protects everyone’s right to free speech on the one hand, but also raises questions about whether such freedom can become a tool for spreading radical and dangerous ideologies on the other. Musk’s influence on public opinion through Platform X (formerly Twitter) and other public statements raises questions about where free speech ends and where responsibility for spreading hateful views begins.
The pinnacle of global influence may accidentally or intentionally encourage the legitimization of extremist ideas, which in turn may exacerbate social divisions and undermine democratic values ​​around the world.
While Musk advocates for unfettered free speech, his influence on public discourse could inadvertently promote dangerous views, fuel xenophobia and social division. Balancing free speech and responsibility is essential to protecting democratic values ​​and preventing the normalisation of harmful ideologies.
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