The European Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to fully enforcing the rules governing social media and other large online platforms, including the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the Digital Services Act (DSA). Commission Vice President Henna Virkkunen emphasized on Wednesday that no investigations have been delayed, contrary to some reports suggesting otherwise.
Enforcement of Digital Markets Act and Digital Services Act
Virkkunen addressed concerns over potential delays in cases against major U.S. tech companies such as Apple, Meta, and Google, clarifying that these investigations are still in the technical phase. This phase involves ongoing exchanges with the companies involved, and decisions have not yet been made. She stated, “There haven’t been any delays,” and reassured that the EU is “fully enforcing the DMA and the DSA.”
These acts are designed to ensure a fair and safe online environment, applying antitrust obligations under the DMA and content moderation rules under the DSA. Virkkunen stressed that the acts were powerful tools that applied to all companies, including European firms, operating within the EU. She also highlighted that the DSA protects freedom of speech, contradicting claims that it limits it.
Meta’s Concerns on Censorship
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently criticized the increasing number of laws in Europe, describing them as institutionalizing censorship. In response to these concerns, Zuckerberg also called on U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to take action against the EU’s fines on U.S. tech companies, as Meta ended its U.S. fact-checking programs last week. Zuckerberg’s comments reflect ongoing tensions between European regulators and U.S. tech giants over content moderation and regulatory compliance.
