Major tech companies, including Meta’s Facebook, Elon Musk’s X, and Google’s YouTube, have pledged to intensify efforts to combat online hate speech. This move follows the integration of an updated code of conduct into the European Union’s (EU) Digital Services Act (DSA), the European Commission announced on Monday.
Other participants in this voluntary initiative include Instagram, LinkedIn, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitch, Microsoft, Dailymotion, and Viber. Originally established in May 2016, the code aims to ensure a safer digital environment by addressing illegal hate speech online.
EU tech commissioner Henna Virkkunen welcomed the companies’ commitment, stating, “In Europe, there is no place for illegal hate, either offline or online.” She emphasised that the strengthened code aligns with the DSA’s goals.
The DSA mandates tech firms to take stronger action against illegal and harmful content on their platforms. EU officials noted that adherence to the updated code could influence regulatory enforcement of the Act.
Key measures under the revised code include allowing expert organisations to monitor how companies handle hate speech reports and ensuring that at least two-thirds of these reports are assessed within 24 hours.
Additionally, companies have committed to using automatic detection tools to limit hate speech, while providing greater transparency about how recommendation systems amplify harmful content. This step aims to curb the spread of illegal material before its removal.
The EU’s updated approach underscores the growing demand for accountability in the digital space, as tech giants face increasing scrutiny over content moderation.