Nick Clegg's "How to Save the Internet" Proposes Radical Reforms Following Meta Departure

Sir Nick Clegg, former UK Deputy Prime Minister and recently departed President of Global Affairs at Meta, has released his new book, "How to Save the Internet: The Threat to Global Connection in the Age of AI and Political Conflict." Published on September 4, 2025, by The Bodley Head, the book delves into the complex intersection of politics and technology, advocating for a blueprint to preserve the open internet amidst growing fragmentation and regulatory pressures. The announcement of the book's release was highlighted by "Squawk Box" on social media, noting Clegg's discussion on regulation.

Clegg's work addresses the increasing threats to the global, open internet, which he argues is fragmenting due to democracies seeking to rein in Big Tech, Silicon Valley's America-first agenda, and authoritarian regimes isolating their populations. He posits that while new regulations are essential, imposing national borders on the internet risks undermining its capacity for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and trade. The book aims to set out where Big Tech has faltered and the radical reforms needed for global platforms to secure a long-term future.

A central theme of the book is Clegg's perspective on the "techlash," where he largely defends Meta and other large technology companies against charges that their algorithms polarize, manipulate, or harm users, suggesting these claims are "vastly overstated or simply untrue." He argues that the primary threat is not from the internet itself, but from those who seek to over-regulate it. Critics, however, suggest that much of the book serves as a defense of Meta's practices, with some reviews calling it "spinning Silicon Valley."

Clegg proposes two key pillars for saving the internet: "radical transparency" and "collaboration," including the formation of a "digital democracies alliance." He urges tech companies to be more forthcoming about their algorithms and decision-making processes, warning of external intervention if they fail to do so. His proposals aim to foster global cooperation to reform Big Tech while maintaining the fundamental openness of the internet.

His insights come shortly after his departure from Meta in early 2025, where he served as President of Global Affairs since 2022, following an initial role as Vice-President of Global Affairs and Communications from 2018. During his tenure, he was a key interlocutor between Meta and world leaders, overseeing complex issues like content policy, elections, and the handling of misinformation. Filings show Clegg sold nearly $19 million in Meta shares during his time at the company, retaining a holding worth approximately $21 million.