RSS Email

The EU and the Controversial Law on Removing Terrorist Content

Technology is a blessing for most people. A push of a button allows us to complete umpteen tasks. Quit thinking about Las Vegas; you have the opportunity to play legal polskie kasyno online. Social media has given a free platform for people to post their views and creativity. But it becomes an issue when people start endorsing terrorist activities. 

When people start posting how-to videos on making explosives, it plants fears in people’s minds. Social media is not a place to nurture hatred or recruit terrorists. Here’s a quick post that sheds light on the subject, ‘EU and the controversial law on removing terrorist content.’ 

What is the Recent Controversial Law all About?

Recently the EU adopted a controversial law that pushes tech companies to eradicate or delete terrorist content. What is terrorist content anyway? They tried this new law on tech companies and declared that terrorist content should be deleted within an hour or be a hefty fine. The European Parliament adopted the new law in April. Experts and lawmakers did warn them that it would not be practical to push such a law and harm the commoner’s free-speech right and privacy. 

As per the law, companies such as Twitter, Google, and Facebook had to remove terrorism-inducing content. Anything that endorses terrorism or glorifies such activities should be removed immediately. Moreover, the companies also had to take down anything that advises on making firearms and explosives. 

Some parliament members were not in favor of this law, but it does make sense as countries need to protect people from terrorist activities. But, yes, the one-hour removal plan was next to impossible as some small companies can’t implement this as quickly. 

What is the Current Situation?

The European Parliament has adopted this law, requiring internet companies to eradicate or disable flagged terrorist content. Once this is issued, it will be applicable across the European Union. There will be heavy penalties if any firm refuses to accept or comply with the new rule. 

It has been under discussion for many years. The legislation was proposed in 2018 when terrorist attacks were at a peak. Lawmakers were concerned about the problem of online radicalization. This particular legislation will come into full force twelve months after it gets published in the official journal of the EU. Each of the member states will have to adopt it. 

Does the Law Make Sense?

Terrorist activities are detrimental to society. Nobody can still forget the 9/11 attack or the Mumbai Taj Hotel attack. Terrorism brings a lot of pain and suffering as many lives are lost, and the public starts living in fear. 

It is best NOT to endorse terrorist activities online. Online platforms should only be meant for creativity, global news, personal contact, and purchase. Anything that promotes hatred and violence should be removed from social media. Yes, the one-hour takedown timing was short and sudden, but it is pretty relevant as a law. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram should filter terrorism-inducing stories and posts. 

If these companies don’t want to pay a hefty fine or face legal actions, they need to take down terrorist content. Freedom of speech is appreciated, but there should be a limitation on what you post online. It should not endorse hatred for any particular country or group.