Stories from the DSC Advisory Board: The Problem with Perspective

The implementation of the Digital Services Act (DSA) in Germany is a key focus, with its success contingent on perspective and stakeholder input. The DSC advisory board, comprising civil society, research, and industry representatives, is tasked with overseeing the DSA's enforcement and supporting the Digital Services Coordinator in Germany. The latest developments offer insights into the Act's potential and the complexities of its execution. A significant point of discussion involved Prabhat Argawal, a head of department in the DG Connect, the EU's directorate responsible for enforcing the DSA on major platforms. This exchange provided rare, public insight into the inner workings of the DSA's implementation in Brussels, reflecting a commitment to transparency, particularly driven by civil society members. The DG Connect has expanded its structure with new departments, including those focused on online marketplaces and the protection of minors. The DSA's impact is broad, affecting digital platforms and users across Europe, particularly concerning youth protection and content moderation. Article 28 of the DSA addresses child and youth media protection, including the prohibition of personalized advertising for minors. The Act mandates that service providers take "appropriate and proportionate measures" to ensure a high level of privacy, safety, and protection for minors on their services, which has created some tension in how it is enforced. The ongoing review and potential reshuffling of the DSC advisory board highlights the dynamic nature of digital policy and regulation. The Bundestag's Committee on Digital Affairs and State Modernization is responsible for the new appointments, which are expected to be decided on October 16th. The transparency in the current board's activities sets a precedent for future proceedings and underlines the importance of public access to information in the realm of digital governance.