Emergency law and disinformation: an analysis of Articole 36 of EU Digital Services Act = Lei de emerxencia e desinformación: unha análise do artigo 36 da Lei de servizos dixitais da EU = Ley de emergencia y desinformación: un análisis del artículo 36 de la Ley de Servicios Digitales de la UE

Daniele Marongiu

First

2024-01-01

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Abstract

This paper examines how the Digital Services Act (DSA) of the European Union regulates the specific profile of crisis response by social networks, as defined by Article 36 of the DSA and Whereas 91. It focuses on the mechanisms through which social networks, in emergency situations, must curb the proliferation of disinformation that risks polluting information flows. In this context, the paper traces the historical path that led to the drafting of the DSA, marking a shift in regulatory approach compared to the past and proposing a more unilateral and robust regulation. At the same time, it shows how, to maintain a balance of rights that avoids forms of censorship, the DSA does not opt for direct obligations towards social networks by dictating the modalities of disinformation management, but leaves ample room for discretion, while obliging them to carry out moderation activities with transparency and responsibility.