EU Grants Researchers Access to Major Online Platforms' Data
Brussels, Thursday, 3 July 2025.
The European Commission has enabled researchers to access data from very large online platforms, facilitating safer online environments and influencing public policy decisions across the EU.
Understanding the Delegated Act
The European Commission’s delegated act, enacted on 2 July 2025, provides researchers access to critical data from very large online platforms (VLOPs) and very large online search engines (VLOSEs). This legislative move under the Digital Services Act (DSA) is aimed at promoting transparency and accountability by enabling research into systemic risks and mitigation measures posed by these platforms [1][2].
How Data Access Works
The operation of data access under the DSA is meticulously structured. Researchers interested in gaining data access must be vetted by Digital Services Coordinators (DSCs), where they are required to demonstrate their research affiliations, independence, data management capabilities, and commitments to publish their research findings. The Commission has also established the DSA data access portal to streamline applications and facilitate communication among researchers, VLOPs, VLOSEs, and DSCs [1][2].
Benefits and Implications
The implications of this data access are far-reaching, with potential benefits in enhancing research quality and driving innovation across multiple sectors. By accessing the internal data of these major platforms, researchers can derive insights to inform public policy and create safer online environments. This initiative is a part of the EU’s broader strategy to improve data accessibility and foster collaboration among research institutions across Europe [1][2][4].
Moving Forward
After the adoption of the delegated act, the European Parliament and Council have three months to review it. Upon approval, it will enter into force, allowing the first batch of vetted researchers to apply for data access by October 2025. This timeline underscores the EU’s commitment to ensuring that the regulatory framework supports responsible and innovative research practices [2][1].