As of this week, the providers of the top 19 very large online search engines (VLOSE) and very large online platforms (VLOP) designated in April 2023 must publish their annual risk assessment and review reports for the first time, in accordance with digital services regulation.
These reports must include assessments carried out by providers of very large online platforms and search engines to identify and analyze risks arising from their services, such as the spread of illegal content, disinformation or the protection of minors. These reports also illustrate the measures implemented by platforms and search engines to mitigate the risks identified.
With the publication of these reports, the Digital Services Regulation will lead to a new era of transparency and accountability in the technology industry, helping to protect users and society from potential harm and promoting a safer and more responsible online environment.
More information on reporting and publication obligations is available Who.
The Commission will also organize seminars where suppliers of such designated services will be invited to submit published risk assessments to national coordinators of digital servicescivil society organizations and other interested parties. These workshops are expected to take place in early 2025.
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How might the publication of annual risk assessments by online platforms lead to more informed choices for users regarding the platforms they engage with and the content they consume?
## Spotlight on Transparency: A Roundtable Discussion on Online Platform Accountability
**Introduction:**
Welcome to today’s interview, where we delve into the groundbreaking developments in the world of online platform regulation. As of this week, the largest online platforms and search engines in Europe are required to publish their annual risk assessments, ushering in a new era of transparency and accountability. Joining us today are [Guest 1 name and affiliation] and [Guest 2 name and affiliation], both experts in the fields of digital technology and online safety.
**Section 1: Understanding the New Regulation**
* **[To Guest 1]:** Could you provide our viewers with a concise overview of the Digital Services Regulation and its significance in the context of online platform accountability? What are the key goals the regulation seeks to achieve?
* **[To Guest 2]:** This regulation requires platforms to assess and mitigate various risks associated with their services, such as the spread of disinformation and the protection of minors. In your opinion, which of these risks pose the greatest challenges for platforms to address effectively?
**Section 2: The Impact on User Safety**
* **[To Guest 1]:** Some argue that this increased transparency will empower users by providing insight into how platforms operate and the decisions they make. How do you see this regulation potentially benefitting users in terms of their online safety and experience?
* **[To Guest 2]:** Conversely, critics argue that these reports might be overly technical and complex for the average user to understand. What measures, if any, could be taken to ensure that these reports are accessible and meaningful to a wider audience?
**Section 3: The Future of Platform Accountability**
* **[To Guest 1]:** The European Union is leading the way with this regulation. How do you see this potentially influencing similar legislation in other countries and shaping the global landscape of platform accountability?
* **[To Guest 2]:** Looking ahead, where do you see the biggest challenges and opportunities lie for both platforms and users in this evolving regulatory landscape?
**Section 4: Open Forum and Conclusion**
* **[To Both Guests]: ** Do you have any concluding thoughts or insights you’d like to share with our viewers on the future of online platform responsibility and user safety?
* **Host:** Thank you both for joining us today and sharing your expertise on this important topic.
This interview format provides a framework for a comprehensive discussion on the new Digital Services Regulation, its implications, and its potential impact on the future of online platforms and user safety. The open-ended questions encourage a nuanced and insightful dialogue, offering viewers a deeper understanding of this evolving landscape.
