And he regrets it. By the way, Twitter’s own reaction to Bergkamp’s letter – a shitty emoji – speaks volumes, according to Verhoeven. “It’s indicative of how the company thinks it can address serious criticism, requests, or signals,” says Verhoeven. ‘And that makes me think that Bergkamp’s letter won’t immediately lead to surgery. Unfortunately, because the call is justified.’
“The call is justified”
In that sense, he thinks it’s a realistic question whether such a letter or appeal will actually lead to fewer threats or actions against the miners. Though he also points out that there may be other functions behind an open letter. “I think it’s good that the House of Representatives – through the Speaker – has said he believes threats via social media are not normal,” he continues. “But platforms also have a responsibility to take it, and they don’t take it.”
Twitter leaves the code of conduct behind
Twitter’s announcement last week that it will no longer adhere to a voluntary European code of conduct for internet platforms also speaks volumes, according to technology lawyer and owner Lisette Meij of legal consultancy firm Lime Legal. “He’s been visible with Elon Musk for quite some time,” she says. “He’s clearly following his course. Europe knows how to say nice things, but it does things its way ».
Meij agrees with Verhoeven that platforms in the Netherlands bear some responsibility when it comes to threats and hate messages. “As a platform you are not forced to check every message,” says Meij. “Even this is not possible and would lead to a form of censorship. But the moment you realize that something is not possible, you also have to act accordingly.’
Intervene
This can be varied, says Meij. For example, a hate message may be taken offline, and the moment a report is made, you must cooperate with the investigation. “That a platform can designate a user,” she concludes. “So there’s definitely a responsibility to do something with it, the moment you’re aware of it.”