Transparency and Algorithmic Accountability in the Digital Services Act

• Year: 2023

Speaker

Étienne graduated with a post graduate degree in literary, artistic and industrial law (DEA) (Paris II Panthéon-Assas University with Professor Pierre-Yves Gautier as director) and a company lawyer diploma (DJCE), Major in distribution law (Cergy-Pontoise University). He was admitted to the Paris Bar in 1999. He practiced at the international law firm, Salans, then at the firm FERAL-SCHUHL / SAINTE-MARIE as a partner since 2009 before founding NEXT in 2020.

He assists his clients in all digital law aspects: on-line retail, social networks, market places, cloud computing, dematerialization, etc. He also has a significant experience in assisting live show and music firms. His daily practice is dealing with the constant change of company’s needs, regulations in force and legal solutions to bring.

He is a senior lecturer in the Specialized Master “Management of the Musical Sector” at Audencia Business School.

Topic

In the presentation, the speaker delves into a comprehensive analysis of how the Digital Services Act (DSA) effectively tackles the critical issues of transparency and accountability concerning algorithms. From both a legal and practical standpoint, the DSA provides a framework that addresses the challenges posed by algorithms in the digital landscape.

First and foremost, the DSA recognizes the need for transparency in algorithmic processes. It emphasizes the importance of making algorithms more understandable and accessible to users, as well as ensuring that individuals have insight into how their data is being processed and used. By shedding light on the inner workings of algorithms, the DSA aims to enhance user trust and comprehension.

Moreover, the DSA holds digital service providers accountable for the algorithms they employ. It establishes obligations for these providers to implement appropriate measures to address potential risks associated with algorithms. This includes ensuring that algorithms do not perpetuate discrimination, bias, or any form of harm to individuals or groups. By imposing such accountability, the DSA aims to safeguard users' rights and prevent the misuse of algorithms.

The DSA also outlines specific...