Commission launches Transparency Database Update with Dashboard (Digital Services Act)
Today, the European Commission has launched a new user interface of the DSA Transparency Database as well as a new interactive dashboard that makes it easy to access summarised information on statements of reasons submitted by providers of online platforms.
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The transparency database is a unique regulatory repository that collects online platforms’ statements of reasons, which they are mandated to provide under the Digital Services Act (DSA) to explain to users why access to content has been removed or restricted. The transparency database is a crucial transparency tool under the DSA which provides unparalleled access to data on online content moderation to the public.
Since its launch in September 2023, the database has already collected over three billion statements of reasons which users can search and download. Now, the Commission is taking the next step to enable stakeholders, researchers, journalists, and all interested users to explore and analyse the database’s content. Users will find a new landing page, including a quick overview of the database, and will benefit from improved filtering options in the data download section. Moreover, the new dashboard will enable the exploration of multiple interactive visualisations which allow users to focus on the data that is of most interest to them, without the need for any programming experience.
For now, only the very large online platforms (VLOPs) designated in April 2023 are obliged to comply with the DSA and to submit statements of reasons. However, starting 17 February 2024, a new chapter for the transparency database will start as the DSA comes into full force and all online platforms, except micro and small enterprises, will have to submit data on their content moderation decisions. Platforms are expected to contact the Commission, who is working closely together with the prospective Digital Services Coordinators to ensure the seamless onboarding of those platforms’ statements of reasons into the database.
The Commission remains strongly committed to foster online transparency through all mechanisms of the DSA. The transparency database is complemented by the terms and condition database, mandatory data access for researchers, mandatory publication of transparency reports, and more. Together, every single of these initiatives does its part to ensure that the internet is a safe and fair place for all.
