On 4 October 2022, the Council of the EU approved the Digital Services Act (DSA). The DSA aims to protect users’ fundamental rights and to counter the dissemination of illegal content in cyberspace.

The DSA is to set new standards for safe and accountable online environment. The Act defines the responsibilities and accountability for providers of intermediary services, such as social media or online marketplaces. The requirements are designed in accordance with the principle of proportionality, which means that very large online platforms and search engines (VLOPs and VLOSEs) are subject to stricter rules.

In view of the Russian aggression in Ukraine and the current manipulation of online information, the DSA introduces a crisis response mechanism. The mechanism will be analysing the impact of the activities of VLOPs and VLOSEs on the crisis and rapidly decide on proportionate and effective measures to ensure the respect of fundamental rights.

After being signed by the President of the European Parliament and the President of the Council, the DSA will be published in the Official Journal of the European Union and will start to apply fifteen months after its entry into force.

Source: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2022/10/04/dsa-council-gives-final-approval-to-the-protection-of-users-rights-online/?utm_source=dsms-auto&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DSA%3a+Council+gives+final+approval+to+the+protection+of+users%27+rights+online