Can We Make Digital Platforms’ Algorithms Less Harmful?
Europe has relied heavily on regulation to protect itself from Big Tech firms. However, regulatory efforts are now encountering limitations, especially as the U.S. administration relaxes its own regulatory stance and increasingly challenges EU policies.
Given these shifting political dynamics, how can the EU effectively manage the influence of Big Tech platforms while fostering European digital platforms that better serve societal interests?
The recent IEP@BU report, Rules That Empower, highlights a significant limitation in current regulatory frameworks, noting that while regulations attempt to minimize harm caused by digital platforms, they have inadvertently stifled innovation.
The IEP@BU Policy Brief Certification of Business Practices and Algorithms of Digital Platforms proposes an innovative approach aimed at curbing harmful practices by dominant platforms. It also seeks to incentivize emerging platforms whose practices align closely with the public interest.
Platforms undergoing voluntary certification could thus distinguish themselves competitively, potentially pressuring dominant platforms to revise their practices to maintain market share. Regulators could, if necessary, eventually mandate certification for dominant platforms.
The upcoming IEP@BU digital event will further explore this policy brief and its implications.
Two of the authors, Dovev Lavie and Tommaso Valletti, will present their proposals. Luca Aguzzoni (European Commission) will provide feedback from a policymaking perspective, while Mariateresa Maggiolino (IEP@BU and co-author of "Rules That Empower") will serve as a discussant.
SPEAKERS:
- Luca Aguzzoni: Head of Sector, DMA team, DG CNECT, European Commission
- Dovev Lavie: Professor of Management, Department of Management and Technology, Bocconi University
- Mariateresa Maggiolino: Full Professor of Antitrust Law, Bocconi University
- Tommaso Valletti: Professor of Economics, Imperial College Business School
IEP@BU does not express opinions of its own. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. Any errors or omissions are the responsibility of the authors.
