Digital Services Act deal: a framework for a safer internet

Today, Parliament and Council negotiators reached a deal on the Digital Services Act (DSA). DIGITALEUROPE welcomes this 20-year update to the rules which govern the internet.

Director-General of DIGITALEUROPE Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl said:

“Content moderation will always be challenging, given the competing interests involved, but the DSA will help to make the internet safer and more transparent. It will reduce the spread of illegal content and unsafe products online whilst also preserving the fundamental principles essential to the growth of our vibrant internet economy.

The DSA framework creates a tiered set of obligations for different types and sizes of internet services, some of which will be very complex to implement because they touch upon fundamental rights such as freedom of speech. We urge all stakeholders to work pragmatically together to ensure we get the best results.

This has been an emotive debate driven by a common vision for a safer Internet, but the French Presidency, MEP Schaldemose, EVP Vestager and Commissioner Breton deserve real credit for the impressive speed with which they have delivered this legislation, whilst also preserving its balance. When Europe acts as one, we achieve better outcomes for business and citizens.”