Ecorys contributes to fighting the dissemination of terrorist content online

Terrorism remains a serious security threat to the European Union. In today’s digital age, the internet has become a powerful tool not only for communication and connection, but also for the dissemination of harmful and extremist content. Terrorist actors exploit online platforms to radicalise individuals, coordinate attacks, and mobilise funding – often with alarming speed and reach. In response to these threats, the EU stepped up its efforts to ensure a safer digital space.

Background

As the exploitation of online platforms by terrorist actors is growing, the EU has responded by adopting the Regulation (EU) 2021/784 addressing the dissemination of terrorist content online (TCO Regulation). This entails increased awareness and commitment for online platforms to remove or block access to online terrorist content in a timely manner.

The European Commission (DG HOME) has tasked Ecorys and its partners with preparing a study supporting the evaluation of the TCO Regulation. The study analyses its application, its impact in combating the spread of terrorist content online, and whether it remains fit for purpose. To do that, the study assesses relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, coherence, and EU added value.

Our partners: RadarEurope, Spark Legal and Policy Consulting, International Centre for Counter-Terrorism (ICCT)

At Ecorys, we are committed to supporting policymakers in assessing the current state of the implementation of the TCO Regulation and advising on future improvements to ensure its well-functioning.

Our study is expected to be completed in Q4 2025.