Major Tech Firms Sign EU Code to Combat Hate Speech

Leading tech companies have committed to enhancing their efforts to combat illegal hate speech by signing a strengthened code of conduct under the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA). The agreement includes prominent platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitch, X, Snapchat, YouTube, and others like LinkedIn, Rakuten Viber, and Microsoft-hosted services.

The code, integrated into the DSA, aims to improve how online platforms address content deemed illegal hate speech under EU and national laws. According to Michael McGrath, the EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, and Consumer Protection, “Hatred and polarization are threats to EU values… The internet is amplifying the negative effects of hate speech.” He emphasized that the code reflects a unified European commitment to countering these challenges.

Key measures in the agreement include a requirement for platforms to review at least two-thirds of hate speech notifications from certified Monitoring Reporters—public or nonprofit entities specializing in hate speech—within 24 hours. Companies are also expected to provide transparency about their content moderation efforts, including how they use automated tools to detect and reduce harmful content.

Additionally, the platforms will collaborate with experts and civil society groups to identify hate speech trends, prevent viral hate campaigns, and educate users on reporting mechanisms.

Even without a political angle, some platforms have been naturally less focused (or equipped) to deal with things that would be deemed hate speech by law. X, for instance, is currently under investigation for its recommendation systems and algorithmic practices that could led to both hate speech and political interference – and this new code may force X to change not only its content moderation systems, but also the way that its algorithms work to suggest content based on what users have previously interacted with.