The European Union has moved closer to formally integrating its Code of Practice on Disinformation into the Digital Services Act (DSA), a legally binding framework aimed at mitigating systemic risks online. The Code, a voluntary set of guidelines, provides a template for platforms to combat disinformation by cutting financial incentives, focusing on service integrity, and supporting fact-checking.

The development comes as a significant step towards addressing the growing concern of online disinformation, which has been a thorn in the side of the EU's efforts to regulate the digital landscape. The Code, which was first introduced as a voluntary measure, has seen some notable platforms commit to its principles, including Meta, despite its recent decision to drop its fact-checking commitment.

Notably, Elon Musk's X (formerly Twitter) had pulled out of the Code in 2023, citing opposition to the EU's approach to online governance. This move has raised concerns about the platform's commitment to combating disinformation, particularly given its significant influence on the online discourse.

The integration of the Code into the DSA framework is expected to take effect from July 1, 2025, when the commitments made by signatories will become "auditable." This means that platforms will be held accountable for their actions in combating disinformation, and any failures to comply could result in consequences.

The EU's move has been welcomed by experts, who see it as a crucial step towards creating a safer and more trustworthy online environment. "The integration of the Code into the DSA framework is a significant step towards addressing the scourge of online disinformation," said Dr. Emma Briant, a leading expert on disinformation and online governance. "It sends a strong signal to platforms that they will be held accountable for their actions, and that the EU is committed to creating a safer online space."

However, the move also raises questions about the effectiveness of the Code in practice. With Meta's recent decision to drop its fact-checking commitment, despite remaining a signatory to the Code, there are concerns about the willingness of platforms to comply with the Code's principles. Moreover, the ongoing DSA investigation into X, which has been ongoing since December 2023, raises questions about the EU's ability to enforce its rules effectively.

Despite these challenges, the EU's move to integrate the Code into the DSA framework is a significant step towards addressing the complex issue of online disinformation. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial that regulators and platforms work together to create a safer and more trustworthy online environment.

In the coming months, the EU's efforts to combat disinformation will be closely watched, particularly as the DSA framework takes effect. With the stakes higher than ever, it remains to be seen whether the integration of the Code will be enough to make a meaningful difference in the fight against online disinformation.