Heads up, tech lovers! The European Union just hit the big tech giants with two game-changing laws: the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Digital Markets Act (DMA). 📜💥 These rules aim to tame platforms like Apple, Meta, Google and more—and they've already led to hefty fines and stricter content policing across the 27 EU member states.
Earlier this week, the US State Department announced it will deny visas to a former EU commissioner and four others, accusing them of advancing censorship crackdowns targeting American speakers and companies. President Donald Trump has vowed to punish any country that tries to rein in US tech firms, calling the moves a threat to free expression.
What's in the Digital Services Act?
- In force since 2023, the DSA requires platforms to remove illegal content—like hate speech, disinformation, and counterfeit goods—quickly or face fines up to 6% of global revenue. ⏳💸
- Very large platforms (Apple, Amazon, Facebook, Google, Instagram, Microsoft, Snapchat, X) must also increase transparency on algorithms and fight systemic risks.
Meet the Digital Markets Act
- Rolled out this year, the DMA targets "gatekeeper" platforms, banning them from favoring their own services and forcing them to open up interfaces for competitors. 🔓🤝
- Key measures include interoperability requirements, fair ranking, and bans on pre-installing apps without user consent.
These EU laws represent a major shift in how governments oversee the digital space. For young professionals, entrepreneurs, and global citizens, the question is: how will your favorite apps and platforms change their rules and features to comply? Stay tuned as this transatlantic clash unfolds! 🌐⚖️
Reference(s):
EXPLAINER The EU laws curbing big tech – and annoying Donald Trump
cgtn.com
