Netherlands Pressures Meta to Change Algorithms

Among several other legal rows against Meta Platforms in Europe, a Dutch court ordered the company to change the way Instagram and Facebook present content to users. The court ruled Meta must offer simpler options on user timelines that do not focus on making a profit for the company, mainly ensuring the platforms do not rely on algorithms.

It further argued that the design of both platforms goes against the principles of the European Union Digital Services Act (DSA), and it has been given two weeks to offer users a direct and simple way to opt out of timelines that offer recommended content. A chronological-based timeline must be offered, the court added.

In its decision, the court explained that people in the Netherlands are not sufficiently able to make free and autonomous choices about the use of profiled recommendation systems. The case was launched by digital rights group Bits of Freedom. Spokesperson for the group, Maartje Knaap, said it was unacceptable that a few American tech billionaires can determine how we view the world. Meta will appeal the decision, but it faces a fine of up to $5.8 million if it does not comply.