50 Million Times Correct: How the DSA Breaks Platform Arbitrariness

The Digital Services Act (DSA) in the European Union has demonstrated significant impact in its first two years, fundamentally altering the landscape of online content moderation and platform accountability. Notably, nearly one-third of all user complaints regarding content removals and account suspensions have resulted in a successful outcome for the complainant. This suggests a tangible shift in power, empowering users and providing a crucial mechanism for recourse against what were often perceived as arbitrary platform decisions. This substantial success rate, encompassing approximately 50 million instances of users being vindicated, underscores the DSA's effectiveness in curbing the unchecked power of large online platforms. By mandating clearer processes and accountability, the regulation is fostering a more balanced environment for online expression. The implications extend to enhancing user trust and contributing to a more predictable digital public sphere within the EU. The success of the DSA is particularly relevant for European digital sovereignty, as it establishes EU-centric standards that can influence global online governance. This development provides a crucial framework for safeguarding fundamental rights like freedom of expression while ensuring that digital platforms operate within defined legal boundaries, promoting a more responsible and user-centric internet.