The European Commission has launched a public consultation on the draft delegated act regarding the access of qualified researchers to online platform data under the Digital Services Act (DSA).

For the first time, researchers will have access to data to study systemic risks and assess the risk mitigation measures of online platforms within the EU.

This initiative will enable the research community to play a vital role in monitoring and safeguarding the online environment.

The aim is to clarify the procedures for researchers to access data from large-scale operational platforms and search engines.

The consultation follows an initial call for submissions conducted in 2023.

The consultation will run until November 26, 2024. After gathering public feedback, the Commission plans to adopt the rules in the first quarter of 2025.

For more information, you can read about the Digital Services Act (DSA) and how it strengthens online transparency.