FOA Launches Its First European Branch in France
FOA (Fighting Online Antisemitism), in its global mission to fight online antisemitism, has launched its first European branch in France. This important move is a major achievement for our organization and a vital step in our continued struggle against the increasing wave of online antisemitism.
France, which has Europe’s biggest Jewish community, has experienced a worrying increase in antisemitic incidents, especially since the events of October 7, 2023. This spike in overt antisemitism and online abuse is a serious danger to the security and welfare of Jewish communities throughout the continent.
Our new office aims to enhance cooperation with European organizations that are committed to fighting antisemitism. By working together with local and international partners, we can significantly improve our efforts to track, report, and counter antisemitic content on digital platforms.
The launch of our European branch will also allow us to work within the framework of the European Digital Services Act (DSA), which enables organizations like FOA to more effectively address and remove hate content online. The DSA sets clear guidelines and stringent rules for major online platforms, ensuring they act quickly to deal with hate speech and stop its diffusion. Key features of the DSA include transparency and accountability, encourages platforms to work with trusted flaggers (such as FOA) to identify and remove hate speech and disinformation more effectively, platforms are required to conduct yearly risk assessments to address possible issues such as the dissemination of illegal content and misinformation. They are also subject to independent audits to ensure compliance, provide mechanisms for users to report illegal content easily and ensure their complaints are handled promptly. It also enhances users’ control over the content they view and engage with online
The Digital Services Act was established to update the outdated E-Commerce Directive of 2000, recognizing the need for a more current framework to address the complexities of the digital age. The European Commission proposed the DSA on December 15, 2020, and it became effective on November 16, 2022. This regulation aims to create a safer online environment for both consumers and companies. It does this by implementing a comprehensive set of rules for online platforms and search engines operating within the EU. The DSA’s development was led by the European Commission, with significant contributions from various EU member states. The DSA is part of the EU’s broader strategy to ensure a Digital Single Market, promoting innovation, growth, and competitiveness while safeguarding users’ rights and enhancing platform accountability.
The new branch is in line with FOA’s ongoing commitment to protecting the Jewish community and fostering a more inclusive online community.
