Bits of Freedom Calls Out: Stay Loud Against Social Censorship

Feb. 19, 2024

The time has come. This past Saturday, the new European law came into effect that better protects you against censorship, privacy infringement, and algorithmic bias. Bits of Freedom, in collaboration with KesselsKramer, is unveiling a new website where you can read what these laws mean for you, and urges everyone in a campaign: "Stay loud."

Democracy

Social media platforms are handy, even for activists, NGOs, and other critical voices. You can easily connect with others, spread your message, and gather like-minded individuals. However, these same platforms are powerful companies that hide behind their algorithms and can determine who is heard and who is not. Think of shadowbanning,  and the removal of posts and accounts without explanation.

That's why we now have the new Digital Services Act (DSA). A European law that Bits of Freedom has been working on for years, ensuring that platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X can't just do as they please. This is to ensure that critical voices remain heard online.

Critical Voices

It is crucial that you understand what this law entails and how you can use it. Much of the new law only works if you activate certain settings. Therefore, Bits of Freedom calls on activists, NGOs, and other critical voices to stay vocal. The campaign includes a manifesto, already signed by organizations and people such as Amnesty and Alexander Klopping, as well as portraits and animations of three activists who, like Bits of Freedom, fight against unfair technology and for human rights. In these portraits, the mouths are manipulated to visually illustrate how social media affects the reach of critical voices. Organizations and activists are invited to share the campaign with their networks, ensuring that the new laws reach an even wider audience.

Lotje Beek, policy advisor at Bits of Freedom said:

"We are very pleased with the new rights that better protect us against the power and arbitrariness of Big Tech. It's great to see that the law we've been working on behind the scenes is finally in effectю We hope that the DSA gives critical voices the reach they deserve."

 

Gijs van den Berg, Creative Director at KesselsKramer said:

"Freedom of communication is a fundamental right, also online. By communicating the new laws and the right settings, we give users their voice back on digital platforms."

 

Website

On the website jouwplatformrechten.nl, designed by the digital branch of KesselsKramer, kesselskramer.digital, you can read what the new platform rights mean for you. The website focuses on the long term and evolves continuously to stay in line with the laws and ensure your future control over platforms. In addition, you'll find the manifesto and can download campaign materials to make the laws even more widely known. The website will also be utilized by partner NGOs in countries such as Poland and Germany.