Brussels, en.SERU.co.id — The European Commission continues to bar TikTok from staff devices while relying on independent content creators to help reach audiences on social media, highlighting a growing communications dilemma for the EU institution.
The Commission suspended TikTok use on corporate devices and personal devices registered with its mobile service in February 2023. The measure was introduced to strengthen cybersecurity and protect the institution from threats that could potentially be exploited for cyberattacks.
TikTok’s Growing European Audience
A POLITICO report in August 2026 described the situation as a “TikTok paradox,” noting that the Commission restricts the app on staff devices while working with independent creators who use the platform.
Officials involved in the Commission’s communication strategy reportedly argued that the institution cannot afford to ignore platforms used by large numbers of Europeans, particularly younger audiences.
TikTok said in September 2025 that more than 200 million people across Europe used the platform each month, up from 175 million the previous year. The figure covered 32 countries across the European Economic Area and the United Kingdom.
More recently, TikTok reported 189 million monthly active recipients in the European Union during the first half of 2026 under its Digital Services Act transparency reporting.
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Security Concerns Remain
Cybersecurity and data protection remain central to the Commission’s position on TikTok.
During the 2024 European Parliament election campaign, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen did not use TikTok because of security concerns, according to her campaign spokesperson.
At the same time, the Commission has increasingly engaged with content creators as part of its broader communication strategy. The institution has invited creators to EU events and developed initiatives aimed at reaching younger audiences through social media.
Asked about the difference between its internal TikTok restrictions and its cooperation with external creators, a Commission spokesperson said the institution “engages with content creators to effectively communicate with citizens at large and foster open and transparent communication.”
The approach reflects the challenge facing EU institutions: maintaining strict cybersecurity policies while trying to reach citizens on platforms where millions of Europeans already consume news and information.
