EU Threatens Sanctions on Social Media Platforms
EU Threatens Social Media Platforms with Sanctions Following Violence in France
In response to the recent violent incidents following the death of a 17-year-old teenager by a police bullet in France, the European Union (EU) has taken a significant step towards holding social media platforms accountable. Thierry Breton, Member of the EU Commission for Internal Market and Industry, expressed his criticism of these platforms during an interview with Franceinfo, the French public broadcaster.
Breton emphasized that social media platforms have not done enough to address the events in France and stated that they will need to take more action. He pointed out that starting from August 25, these platforms will be subject to the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA). Under this act, they will be required to promptly remove content that incites hatred, promotes disobedience, calls for violence, or encourages arson.
Furthermore, Breton highlighted that platforms that fail to comply with these regulations will face penalties. These penalties may include financial sanctions or even the termination of their activities within EU territory.
The EU Commission had previously announced the Digital Services Law, which applies stricter rules to major digital platforms and search engines operating in Europe. This law includes 19 platforms like Apple, Facebook, and Twitter, which will be obligated to address disinformation, swiftly remove illegal content, enhance protection for minors online, conduct risk assessments, take appropriate measures to mitigate risks, and comply with external audits.
In case of violations, digital platforms may face fines up to 6 percent of their global turnover. In the event of repeated offences, their operations within the EU could be ceased.
The violence and protests in France erupted after the police fatally shot a 17-year-old driver named Nael M. in Nanterre on June 27. Outraged by the incident, people across the country took to the streets, leading to clashes with law enforcement. Protesters even resorted to throwing fireworks at the police officers. The police officer responsible for the shooting has been suspended and is awaiting trial.
With the implementation of the Digital Services Act, the EU aims to ensure that social media platforms actively address and remove harmful content, contributing to a safer and more responsible digital environment.
