Judge in the Bits of Freedom vs. Meta Lawsuit: Meta Must Respect Users’ Choice Overview Bits of Freedom, a digital human rights organization, brought summary proceedings against Meta, demanding that Meta's platforms like Instagram and Facebook give users the option to select a feed that is not based on profiling. This lawsuit is rooted in a breach of the Digital Services Act (DSA), a European legislation aimed at enhancing users' control over major online platforms. Key Points DSA Purpose: The Digital Services Act intends to grant users greater autonomy, freedom of choice, and control over how information is presented to them on online platforms. Social Media as News Source: Social media is a major source of news for many, especially youths, so the ability to choose content affects participation in public debate, crucial during events such as elections. Court Ruling: The judge ruled Meta is violating the law because: Meta’s "non-persistent" choice option for a recommendation system undermines genuine user autonomy. The design of Facebook and Instagram significantly disrupts user autonomy. Meta must ensure that when users select a non-profiled feed, their choice remains effective even when navigating to other app sections or restarting the app. Meta’s Revenue Model Conflict: Meta's business model heavily depends on steering users towards feeds optimized for interest- and behavior-based advertising. The non-profiled feed is hidden, difficult to find, and lacks direct access to certain features like Direct Messages. Apps start with Meta’s profile-based feed by default, overriding previous user choice. Meta’s Obligations Following Ruling: Meta is ordered to change its apps to respect and preserve users’ feed choice consistently. Quotes from Bits of Freedom Maartje Knaap (Spokesperson): > “We are pleased that the judge now makes clear that Meta must respect the user’s choice. It is unacceptable that a handful of American tech billionaires determine how we see the world, posing risks to democracy. Still, it is regrettable we need legal action to ensure Meta complies with the law.” On broader implications: > “This ruling shows Meta is not untouchable. However, this is just a small step. There’s still a long way to go. We hope this decision inspires civil society, regulators, and lawmakers worldwide to collectively counterbalance Meta's overwhelming power.” Additional Information The ruling document is available here (Dutch). National elections in the Netherlands are imminent, highlighting the importance of unbiased information access. About Bits of Freedom A digital human rights organization advocating for users' rights on major online platforms. They encourage and support individuals and organizations working to limit the power of large tech companies. The organization provides opportunities to donate and support their work, emphasizing the cost and effort required for legal actions like this. Related Links Bits of Freedom Shop Donation Information Follow Bits of Freedom on social media platforms: Mastodon: chaos.social/@bitsoffreedom Bluesky: bitsoffreedom.bsky.social Instagram: @bitsoffreedom LinkedIn: Bits of Freedom --- This ruling marks a significant legal precedent demanding transparency and respect for user choice in social media content delivery according to European law.