The Centre for Democracy & Technology Europe's monthly Tech Policy Brief for March 2024 has highlighted critical technology and internet policy issues under debate in Europe, the U.S., and internationally. The briefing aims to help shape policies that promote rights in the digital world. The team at CDT Europe, including Asha Allen, Silvia Lorenzo Perez, Laura Lazaro Cabrera, and David Klotsonis, is available in Brussels for further inquiries.
One significant event mentioned in the brief is the DSA and Platform Regulation Conference held in Amsterdam, following the implementation of the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA). The conference brought together experts, policymakers, regulators, and civil society to discuss the regulations' successes, challenges, and future implications. According to the Institute for Information Law (IViR), the discussions revolved around ensuring transparency, effective monitoring, and regulation of online platforms in the EU.
At the conference, CDT Europe expressed a specific interest in achieving meaningful transparency through the utilization of available data sources. The discussions emphasized the importance of the DSA Transparency Database and the need for platforms to share information effectively to facilitate research access.
In another development, the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) made a significant ruling in the case of Podchasov v Russia, affirming that measures weakening encryption violate users' right to privacy under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This judgment underscores the importance of encryption in protecting users' rights online.
Furthermore, CDT Europe supported the menABLE project's launch event, focusing on combating online gender-based violence. Asha Allen, CDT Europe's Programme Director for Online Expression, participated in the event and highlighted the legislative progress at the EU level in addressing online GBV.
Additionally, the European Parliament approved the final EU Regulation on the Transparency and Targeting of Political Advertising after months of negotiations. CDT Europe, along with partners, responded to the adoption of the law with key recommendations to enhance safeguards for political expression and participation in elections.
As 2024 unfolds, CDT Europe remains vigilant in monitoring the implementation of the Political Advertising Regulation and advocating for transparent, fair, and open democratic processes in the EU.
