The digital sphere has become the new town square of democracy. But while online platforms enable millions of people to connect and debate, they also carry risks: disinformation, hate speech, and manipulative algorithms that can distort public opinion.
To address these challenges, the European Union adopted the Digital Services Act (DSA). This regulation sets clear standards for online transparency and accountability. It strengthens user rights, obliges platforms to explain how algorithms work, and requires measures to reduce harmful content.
For citizens, this means safer and more reliable online environments where their voices can be heard without fear of manipulation or harassment.
The ITHACA project shares this vision. ITHACA is developing a civic participation platform that reflects the principles of the DSA.
Key features include:
By piloting this platform in Martin (Slovakia) and Brașov (Romania), ITHACA creates online spaces where citizens can engage in local governance without the noise and toxicity that often dominate social media.
Safe digital spaces are not just a matter of technology — they are a prerequisite for healthy democracies. With initiatives like the DSA and ITHACA, Europe is showing the world how to combine innovation with responsibility, ensuring that the digital age strengthens, rather than undermines, civic participation.
Learn more: https://www.eipa.eu/publications/the-digital-services-act-creating-accountability-for-online-platforms-and-protecting-users-rights/
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Europe Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
