Major tech companies, including Meta, Google, TikTok, and X, have pledged to tackle hate speech on their platforms in the European Union. The companies have signed the revised Code of Conduct on Countering Illegal Hate Speech Online, which aims to prevent and remove illegal hate speech from their platforms. The code is an update to a 2016 agreement and commits signatories to transparency around hate speech detection and reduction, as well as allowing third-party monitors to assess how hate speech notices are reviewed.

The revised code, integrated into the Digital Services Act (DSA), requires companies to review "at least two-thirds of hate speech notices" within 24 hours. EU Commissioner Michael McGrath emphasized the importance of addressing hate speech, stating that "hatred and polarisation are threats to EU values and fundamental rights and undermine the stability of our democracies." The internet, he noted, is amplifying the negative effects of hate speech, making a robust response crucial.

Notably, the commitments made by these tech giants are entirely voluntary, and companies face no penalties if they decide to back out of the agreement. This lack of enforceability has raised concerns, as seen in 2022 when Elon Musk withdrew X (then known as Twitter) from the Code of Practice on Disinformation. The voluntary nature of the code raises questions about the effectiveness of self-regulation in addressing the complex issue of hate speech online.

The revised code is part of the EU's broader efforts to regulate the tech industry and ensure that companies take responsibility for the content on their platforms. The Digital Services Act, which came into force in 2022, aims to create a safer and more accountable online environment. The EU's efforts are seen as a model for other regions, as governments and regulators around the world grapple with the challenges of regulating the tech industry.

While the signing of the revised code is a positive step, its impact remains to be seen. The lack of enforceability and the reliance on self-regulation may limit its effectiveness in addressing the pervasive problem of hate speech online. Nevertheless, the move highlights the growing recognition among tech companies of their role in shaping online discourse and their responsibility to promote a safer and more respectful online environment.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, the issue of hate speech online will remain a pressing concern. The EU's efforts to regulate the industry and promote accountability among tech companies are crucial in addressing this challenge. While the revised code is a step in the right direction, its limitations underscore the need for ongoing efforts to develop more effective solutions to this complex problem.