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Appeals Centre Europe

The mission of Appeals Centre Europe is to independently and impartially resolve disputes raised by people and communities in the European Union about the application of content standards by online social media platforms in a scalable, swift, efficient and cost-effective manner.

Lobbying Activity

Response to European Democracy Shield

26 May 2025

Out-of-court dispute settlement is a new right created by the EUs Digital Services Act. For the first time users can challenge decisions by online platforms to certified, expert and impartial bodies, as a cheaper and faster alternative to court and independent from platforms and governments. As such, Out-of-court Dispute Settlement Bodies (ODS Bodies) represent an important part of the content moderation landscape, playing a vital role in implementing the DSA and in safeguarding human rights online. Appeals Centre Europe welcomes the Commissions initiative on the Democracy Shield and wishes to outline the contribution ODS Bodies can make towards the principles of the initiative. Appeals Centre Europe is a new, independent body, certified by Coimisiún na Meán, Irelands media regulator, underArticle 21 of the EUs Digital Services Act to resolve disputes on content moderation decisions by social media platforms. We provide quick and impartial decisions on wrongful takedown of content or when harmful content, such as misinformation or hate speech, is not removed. We cover all EU countries and can review content is all widely spoken languages. We currently cover Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, and will soon expand to other social media platforms and content types such as user account suspensions. The Appeals Centre aims to regularly publish data on its work, which can be used by regulators, researchers, and other interested parties. The Appeals Centre, as well as other ODS Bodies, are part of a new Network of ODS Bodies. Through our independent, expert and transparent review of platforms decisions, we contribute to a safer online environment and to identifying systemic risks on social media platforms. Among the Network, our work covers a wide range of platforms, including social media, online marketplaces, trading platforms, accommodation services, and more. We are convinced that our services will significantly improve peoples online experiences and help keep people safe online.
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Meeting with Werner Stengg (Cabinet of Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen)

6 Feb 2025 · Presentation of the work of out-of-court dispute settlement bodies under the Digital Services Act