EU Set to Unveil Digital Services Act for Harmonized Content Moderation
The European Union is set to unveil the Digital Services Act (DSA) next week, a landmark regulation aimed at governing digital services and content moderation across the bloc. This comes amidst a surge in high-growth online platforms and concerns over illegal content and fundamental rights.
The EU has seen a 40% increase in high-growth online platforms since 2018, with over 10,000 now operating within its borders. Giants like Amazon, with its localized EU sites, and Siemens' smart home appliances under BSH Hausgeräte GmbH, are among the notable players. However, the lack of a unified approach to illegal content has led to fragmentation and risks to fundamental rights.
Digital intermediaries currently tackle illegal content, with providers like eBay removing millions of pieces annually, often proactively. Yet, the absence of harmonized rules makes it challenging for businesses and consumers. The DSA aims to address this by establishing horizontal, principle-based rules for digital service providers to combat illegal content, products, and conduct.
The DSA, to be presented by the European Commission next week, seeks to balance new obligations with EU fundamental rights, including freedom of speech. By clarifying responsibilities and improving the quality of notices for content takedowns, the act aims to create a better functioning EU digital single market. This will not only safeguard online rights but also facilitate cross-border trade, with 98% of eBay's small businesses in the EU being exporters.
