The recent significant migration of many users from X to Bluesky has led to an unexpected repercussion. The social platform is being criticized for failing to comply with the transparency requirements imposed by the European Union’s Digital Services Act.
Bluesky and European Regulations
Bluesky, an emerging social network, has caught the attention of the European Commission for not adhering to transparency rules mandated by the Digital Services Act. According to this regulation, all platforms, even those with fewer than 45 million active monthly users in the European Union, must clearly display on their website the number of users and their legal location. Currently, this information is missing from Bluesky’s website, as noted by a spokesperson for the European Commission during a press briefing.
Rapid Growth
With over 22 million users to date, Bluesky remains below the regulatory threshold for very large online platforms
as defined by the DSA. This threshold, set at 45 million active monthly users in the EU, subjects platforms to direct oversight by the European Commission. However, for smaller platforms, the regulation requires that national authorities be able to identify their legal headquarters. Yet, the 27 EU member states, when asked to provide information about Bluesky’s presence in Europe, found no evidence of its existence.
A Surge Fueled by Migration from X
As mentioned, Bluesky’s success is largely due to a mass exodus of users fleeing X, which they claim has become unbearable under Elon Musk’s leadership. The recent U.S. presidential election, marked by Donald Trump’s victory, has intensified this migration. This situation has allowed Bluesky to quickly achieve impressive numbers, even attracting top public and political figures, such as Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, who opened an account on the platform.
Despite these regulatory challenges, Bluesky stands out as a Public Benefit Company, allowing it to mix profit goals with a public interest mission. This model could work in its favor in addressing questions from European regulators.
Have you had a chance to try out Bluesky? What do you think?
Hi, my name is Disha and I’m a passionate writer and editor at “Jason Deegan”. With a keen interest in all things tech, I strive to bring you the latest news and updates from the world of high-tech.