Commission recommends Member States to fast-track DSA governance to enhance response to illegal online content
Today, the Commission published a set of recommendations for Member States to coordinate their response to the spread and amplification of illegal content, such as terrorist content or unlawful hate speech, before it can lead to a serious threat to public security. The aim is for Member States to support the Commission in ensuring full compliance by Very Large Online Platforms and Search Engines with their new obligations under the Digital Services Act (DSA), ahead of the deadline for Member States to play their role in the enforcement of the DSA.
In the context of an unprecedented period of conflict and instability affecting the European Union, first with Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, and now with the terrorist attacks by Hamas on Israel, the Commission counts on Member States to join forces to enable prompt enforcement of the DSA. The DSA establishes a set of rules for a safe, predictable and trusted online environment in the EU, that is respectful of fundamental rights, in particular the freedom of expression and information. Since August 2023, the DSA requires designated Very Large Online Platforms and Very Large Online Search Engines to adopt mitigation measures that are tailored to the specific systemic risks posed by their systems, including systemic risks arising from dissemination of illegal content.
President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said: “Hamas’ terrorist attack has also led to an online assault of heinous, illegal content promoting hatred and terror. With our Digital Services Act, Europe now has strong rules to protect users, including vulnerable population groups, from intimidation and to ensure fundamental freedoms online. Major platforms are subject to new obligations to mitigate such risks from their services. Today’s recommendation will help us to coordinate our responses with Member States and protect our society.”
