The German Federal Court of Justice recently clarified online platforms' liability for user-generated content, ruling platforms aren't directly liable without knowledge but must act swiftly upon notification, significantly impacting digital service providers across Europe.
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner ordered Telegram to pay AUD 1 million for ignoring transparency obligations. Officials requested details on terrorist and child sexual content steps, but Telegram delayed months, triggering enforcement under the Online Safety Act.
On 28 February 2025, Japan’s Cabinet announced significant plans to introduce a Bill to promote research, development, and practical application of artificial intelligence technologies. The legislation focuses on transparency, protection of rights, and international cooperation.
Ireland’s Online Safety Code introduces age verification, parental controls, and content declarations to protect minors and the public from harmful online content. This initiative aligns with EU regulations, setting new standards for video-sharing platforms.
The Irish Media Commission, Coimisiún na Meán, has taken a significant step to regulate online platforms with its newly implemented Online Safety Code. This code sets strict requirements for video-sharing platforms to protect minors and the general public from harmful content.
With age verification measures and parental controls at its core, the Code aims to tackle the growing concerns of digital safety.
Platforms like YouTube and TikTok now have clear obligations to safeguard minors. The Code mandates the implementation of robust age verification systems, barring children from accessing explicit content.
Unlike traditional self-declaration systems, these measures require more advanced verification techniques. For parents, the Code introduces tools to limit children’s screen time, block inappropriate content, and control online interactions.
Creators uploading videos must now declare whether their content includes advertisements or harmful material.
This transparency is pivotal in addressing risks like cyberbullying, promotion of self-harm, and the sharing of explicit videos.
Platforms are required to suspend accounts of users who frequently breach these rules, following a case-by-case review to balance enforcement with freedom of expression.
The Code isn’t an isolated effort. It incorporates the EU Digital Services Act and the EU Terrorist Content Online Regulation, ensuring a cohesive approach across Europe.
By aligning with Article 28b of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive, the Irish initiative sets a precedent for other nations to follow in online safety governance.
Aoife Molloy
Coimisiún na Meán plans to distribute educational materials and launch campaigns to inform users about their online rights and safety measures. This collaborative effort underscores the societal responsibility to foster a safer digital environment.
jcaulfield
The German Federal Court of Justice recently clarified online platforms' liability for user-generated content, ruling platforms aren't directly liable without knowledge but must act swiftly upon notification, significantly impacting digital service providers across Europe.
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner ordered Telegram to pay AUD 1 million for ignoring transparency obligations. Officials requested details on terrorist and child sexual content steps, but Telegram delayed months, triggering enforcement under the Online Safety Act.
The European Commission recently submitted a proposal for an EU Blueprint on cybersecurity crisis management. The recommendation outlines response mechanisms, promotes Union, and calls for collaboration between civilian authorities and military partners.
China's new rules on military content sharing impose tighter guidelines on what can be posted online. The rules mandate platforms to follow official sources, banning misinformation while promoting government-approved perspectives on national defence, history, and military achievements.
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