Analysis
While the internet in 2016 *was* rapidly evolving—particularly in areas like social media regulation, disinformation, and AI—it was not entirely 'uncharted' for policymakers or tech leaders. By 2016, frameworks like the EU’s **e-Commerce Directive (2000)**, **Net Neutrality rules (2015)**, and ongoing debates about data privacy (pre-GDPR) already existed. Merkel’s framing likely referred to *emerging* challenges (e.g., algorithmic bias, election interference), but the claim understates prior regulatory and technical experience. Her call for collective navigation aligns with contemporaneous EU efforts to update digital policies (e.g., the **Digital Single Market Strategy**).
Background
Merkel’s remarks came amid rising global concerns about platform accountability, following events like the **2016 U.S. election interference** and debates over Facebook’s role in spreading misinformation. The EU was simultaneously drafting the **General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)**, adopted in 2016, which reflected a mature—if incomplete—approach to digital governance. Her statement also echoed broader political rhetoric about the need for multistakeholder collaboration in tech policy.
Verdict summary
Merkel’s 2016 statement about the internet being 'uncharted territory' was broadly accurate for its time but oversimplified the extent of existing governance and technical expertise.