The European Commission has teamed up with Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Microsoft to announce a new code of conduct designed to combat illegal online hate speech. The aim is to “respond the challenge of ensuring that online platforms do not offer opportunities for illegal online hate speech to spread virally,” said the EC in a statement.
Although many EU member states already seek to enforce many of the new code’s policies in their national laws, the rules are the first attempt to codify how the IT companies themselves deal with the spread of illegal hate speech online.
“The recent terror attacks have reminded us of the urgent need to address illegal online hate speech,” said EC justice commissioner Vera Jourova, adding that “social media is unfortunately one of the tools that terrorist groups use to radicalise young people and to spread violence and hatred."
Under the terms of the code of conduct, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Microsoft commit to reviewing the majority of valid notifications for removal of illegal hate speech in less than 24 hours and remove or disable access to such content, if necessary. Other commitments include the promise to have in place clear and effective processes to review notifications regarding illegal hate speech on their services.
In addition, the IT companies have pledged to strengthen partnerships with governmental bodies to fulfil the role of a "trusted reporter", and to share best practices with other internet companies, platforms and social media operators.
