European Commission Advances Digital Security with Revised Hate Speech Code
Brussels, Tuesday, 28 January 2025.
The revised Code of Conduct aims to strengthen the Digital Services Act by addressing illegal online hate speech, enhancing collaboration, and ensuring safer digital environments in Europe.
Enhanced Digital Framework Implementation
The European Commission, along with the European Board for Digital Services, has integrated a strengthened version of the Code of Conduct for countering illegal hate speech online into the Digital Services Act (DSA) framework [1]. This integration, announced in January 2025, has gained support from major technology platforms including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube [1], representing a significant step forward in European digital policy enforcement.
Platform Accountability and Compliance
Under the revised framework, online platforms designated under the DSA can demonstrate their compliance through adherence to the Code of conduct+ [1]. A crucial aspect of this implementation is the mandatory annual independent audit that these platforms must undergo [1]. Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, who leads Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, emphasized that ‘In Europe there is no place for illegal hate, either offline or online’ [1], highlighting the EU’s commitment to maintaining safe digital spaces.
Integration with Existing Digital Frameworks
The initiative builds upon the original 2016 Code of conduct [1], strengthening the mechanisms through which online platforms address content that violates EU and national laws regarding hate speech. This development coincides with broader digital regulatory efforts, including the implementation of the Digital Services Act’s enforcement framework [1]. The integration facilitates more effective enforcement of DSA requirements, particularly concerning the risks associated with illegal content dissemination on digital platforms.
Timeline and Future Impact
The timing of this implementation is particularly significant as it aligns with other major digital policy developments in the EU. For instance, as of January 28, 2025, the EU is actively working on strengthening its data protection framework, as evidenced by the CPDP Data Protection Day conference in Brussels [3]. This comprehensive approach to digital regulation demonstrates the EU’s commitment to creating a safer and more responsible digital environment while maintaining transparent and accountable online platforms.