You can now challenge content moderation on social media
By the end of the year, you will have more power in online moderation with the launch of the Appeals Centre Europe. The independent body, based in Dublin, will allow users to quickly and easily challenge content moderation decisions made by social media platforms: the goal is to review each appeal under 90 days. Initially, it will focus on disputes on Facebook, TikTok, and Youtube.
The centre will be funded through €100 fees charged to social media companies for each dispute that is brought up, regardless of the outcome. Users will pay €5 to appeal and receive a refund if they win their case.
The centre is one of the first out-of-court dispute settlement bodies legally certified under the EU's Digital Services Act, with its certification granted by Ireland's media regulator. All decisions will be human-made, unlike the algorithm-driven processes platforms usually rely on.
The appeals centre is a step forward in improving social media moderation and allowing users to take matters into their own hands. It is also a sign that Ireland is taking its role as Europe's digital regulator increasingly seriously. Read here why the future of social media in the EU is happening in Ireland.