On January 20, 2025, the European Commission announced the integration of revised voluntary commitments into the Digital Services Act (DSA) aimed at improving compliance with illegal content moderation.

Major tech firms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitch, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, have signed an updated code of conduct to combat hate speech online.

This revised code enhances transparency in hate speech detection and allows for third-party monitoring of how platforms handle hate speech notifications.

Tech companies are committed to implementing automatic detection tools to minimize hate speech and will report on their efforts to increase transparency.

Under the new code, platforms are required to review at least two-thirds of hate speech notices within 24 hours of receipt.

Companies must provide country-specific data categorized by types of hate speech, including race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, and sexual orientation.

Additional measures include analyzing the spread of illegal content before removal and providing insights into recommendation systems.

EU tech commissioner Henna Virkkunen emphasized the importance of this commitment within the DSA framework, reinforcing Europe's zero tolerance for illegal hate speech.

Michael McGrath, another EU commissioner, highlighted the threat of hate speech to EU values and democracy, noting the internet's role in amplifying these issues.

Virkkunen stressed the necessity of collaboration among stakeholders to create a safer digital environment.

These actions reflect increasing regulatory scrutiny of tech companies as they strive to balance operational efficiency with compliance demands in the EU.

While these commitments are significant, they remain voluntary, meaning companies can withdraw without facing penalties.