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Tech Companies Commit to Strengthen Efforts Against Online Hate Speech
Updated Code of Conduct Integrated into EU Tech Rules
Major technology companies have pledged to enhance measures to tackle online hate speech under a revised Code of Conduct, now integrated with the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA). This commitment aligns with the EU’s push for stricter regulations on illegal and harmful online content.
Participating Companies
The updated agreement includes notable tech giants such as:
- Meta (Facebook)
- Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter)
- Google (YouTube)
- Dailymotion
- Jeuxvideo.com
- Microsoft
- Snapchat
- Rakuten Viber
- TikTok
- Twitch
EU’s Stance on Hate Speech
EU Tech Commissioner Henna Virkkunen emphasized the region’s firm stance:
“In Europe, there is no place for illegal hate, either offline or online. I welcome the stakeholders’ commitment to a strengthened Code of Conduct under the Digital Services Act.”
Key Provisions of the Revised Code
The revised Code of Conduct includes the following commitments:
- Increased Monitoring: Companies will collaborate with not-for-profit and public entities with expertise in illegal hate speech to monitor the review process for hate speech notifications.
- Speedy Response: At least two-thirds of hate speech notifications from these entities must be assessed within 24 hours.
- Automated Tools: Platforms will adopt automatic detection tools to reduce hate speech proactively.
- Transparency: Companies must disclose how recommendation systems and algorithmic processes contribute to the spread of illegal content, including providing data on organic reach before content removal.
Impact of the Digital Services Act
The DSA enforces stringent requirements on tech companies to combat illegal content. Compliance with the updated Code of Conduct will influence how regulators assess adherence to these rules.
This initiative reflects the EU’s determination to create a safer online environment by holding tech companies accountable for their role in moderating digital spaces.