In a move emphasizing transparency and accountability within the digital sphere, the European Commission has formally requested information from 17 Very Large Online Platforms and Very Large Online Search Engines designated under the Digital Services Act on April 25th, 2023. This targeted group encompasses prominent names such as AliExpress, Amazon Store, App Store, and social media giants like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. The crux of these information requests lies in the platforms’ adherence to the DSA’s mandate for providing “prompt and unrestricted” access to publicly available data on their interfaces for qualified researchers. This access to platform data serves a critical function: it empowers researchers to hold platforms accountable and fosters public scrutiny of their policies and practices. The Commission’s initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the DSA, particularly in the context of upcoming national and EU-wide elections, where monitoring of illegal content and goods online is paramount.

By undertaking this initiative, the Commission underscores its unwavering dedication to fostering a digital environment characterized by transparency, accountability, and responsible conduct among major online platforms and search engines. Interested parties seeking further details on the Commission’s ongoing investigations into DSA compliance can access additional information provided by the Commission itself.

The press release is available here.