Thoughts on EU Data Act proposal
Summary
The Commission is keen for the EU to retain its global leadership role, driving robust standards for a digital age. At first glance, the proposal appears to be a step in the right direction of ensuring citizens have power over their own data. The predominant model of sharing – where content created on large platforms is owned and monetized and where algorithms can foster the spread of misinformation and fake news – is failing citizens and democracies alike. • Facilitating access to and the use of data by consumers and businesses, while preserving incentives to invest in ways of generating value through data: • This includes clarifying the application of relevant rights under Directive 96/9/EC on the legal protection of databases (the Database Directive) to its provisions. There must be an opportunity to place citizens at the heart of this legislative proposal to ensure we have better sharing online in the public interest.