Researchers Launch Legal Challenge to tech Giants Over Data access, Citing DSA Shortcomings
Berlin – A coalition of research organizations is initiating legal action against Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and other major tech companies, demanding greater clarity regarding their data practices under the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA). The ”mass request” for data, launched today, aims to force the platforms to disclose information crucial for autonomous analysis of algorithmic processes and content moderation – access the companies have so far largely denied.
The DSA, which came into effect three years ago, was intended to provide a framework for democratic oversight of large online platforms. However, researchers argue the law’s potential remains largely untapped due to insufficient enforcement and loopholes exploited by tech firms. Specifically, they criticize the platforms’ reluctance to share data necessary to understand how algorithms shape information access and the impact of features like AI-powered search summaries on news publishers. These summaries,offered by search engines like Google,divert traffic from news sources,possibly undermining the financial viability of quality journalism,researchers claim.
The organizations involved are prepared to pursue legal remedies to compel data disclosure. They emphasize the growing risks posed by opaque algorithms and the increasing alignment of tech executives with anti-democratic movements in Europe and the United States, highlighting the critical need for effective DSA implementation. “The DSA exists as an instrument for democratic control,” stated a representative,”but the regulation remains a construction site.” They hope to see the DSA’s potential fully realized in the coming year.
