Exploring the Legal Regulation of Social Media in Europe: A Review of Dynamics and Challenges—Current Trends and Future Developments

Abstract

Today, the process of digitisation of everyday life pervades all aspects and areas in which human beings move and realise their interests. The political sphere is no exception and is also influenced by technological innovation. Over the last decade, the development of Web 2.0 has meant that cyberspace, albeit through electronic means, has taken on the characteristics of a physical place in the guise of social platforms. Currently, the continued proliferation of social networks is reviving numerous debates and latent issues that are still unresolved. Against this backdrop, research has been undertaken to understand the different aspects and the many meanings of this new dimension across different fields of research. In fact, the work will initially focus on the role they possess in society and the possible negative declinations resulting from disinformation and will then come to a legal overview in terms of European regulations, with reference to the protection of privacy and personal data following the enactment of EU Regulation 679/2016. The objective of this study is to provide a sociological and legal framework for the ethics of artificial intelligence and legal regulation in Europe. This study aims to promote a scientific and political discussion to improve understanding of the pervasiveness of social networks and related legal implications. Additionally, this study seeks to offer a perspective that leads to ethical and sustainable solutions.