top of page

European Union

EU Digital Services Act

Article 34

2022


Risk Assessment Requirements for Very Large Online Platforms and Search Engines


Obligation:
Providers of very large online platforms and very large online search engines are required to diligently identify, analyze, and assess systemic risks within the European Union that arise from:

  • The design or functioning of their services and related systems (including algorithmic systems)

  • The use made of their services by users


Timing and Frequency of Risk Assessments

  • Initial assessments must be conducted by the application date referred to in Article 33(6), second subparagraph

  • Thereafter, assessments must be conducted at least once per year

  • A new assessment must also be conducted prior to the deployment of any functionalities that may critically impact the identified risks


Scope and Proportionality of Risk Assessments

  • Assessments must be specific to the service in question

  • They must be proportionate to the level of systemic risk, considering:
    Severity of the risk
    Probability of its occurrence


Systemic Risks to Be Assessed (Selected Example)

The risk assessment must include evaluation of:

  • Any actual or foreseeable negative effects related to:

    • Gender-based violence

    • Protection of public health and minors

    • Serious negative consequences to a person’s physical and mental well-being

Let me know if you'd like this section synthesized with broader summaries of EU platform regulations or prepared for a policy briefing.

bottom of page