German government passes Digital Services Act
17 February 2025
The German government today adopted the “Gesetz über digitale Dienste” (Digital Services Act). The law is intended to regulate the activities of online platforms and services, such as social networks, search engines and online marketplaces.
The Digital Services Act is based on the European Union’s Digital Services Act, which was adopted in 2022. The German law incorporates the EU’s requirements, but also includes some additional provisions.
The law imposes a number of obligations on online platforms and services, including:
- Transparency and accountability: Platforms must be transparent about their algorithms and content moderation policies. They must also provide users with easy access to information about how their data is being used.
- Combating illegal content: Platforms must take reasonable steps to prevent and remove illegal content from their services. This includes content that is harmful to children, incites violence or hatred, or violates copyright.
- Protecting user rights: Platforms must respect the rights of users, including their right to freedom of expression, privacy and data protection.
The Digital Services Act also establishes a new regulator for online platforms and services. The regulator will be responsible for enforcing the law and imposing penalties on companies that violate it.
The law will come into effect on 1 January 2026.
Additional provisions
In addition to the EU’s requirements, the German law includes a number of additional provisions. These include:
- A requirement for platforms to have a physical presence in Germany: This provision is intended to make it easier for German authorities to enforce the law.
- A ban on targeted advertising to children: This provision is intended to protect children from being exposed to harmful content.
- A requirement for platforms to cooperate with law enforcement: This provision is intended to help law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute crimes that are committed online.
Criticism of the law
The Digital Services Act has been criticized by some for being too restrictive. Critics argue that the law will stifle innovation and prevent online platforms from operating effectively.
However, the government has defended the law, arguing that it is necessary to protect users from the risks associated with online platforms and services.
Next steps
The Digital Services Act will now be sent to the German parliament for approval. Once approved, the law will come into effect on 1 January 2026.
Das Gesetz über digitale Dienste
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Die Bundesregierung a new article on 2025-02-17 11:00 titled “Das Gesetz über digitale Dienste”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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