Skriftlig høring om administrative påbud om blokering af hjemmesider og domænenavne

Written consultation on administrative orders blocking websites and domain names

September 21st 2023

Should public authorities be able to issue orders to block access to websites and domain names without a court order, but solely based on a decision?

On June 21st, 2023, the Danish Internet Forum (DIFO) held an oral consultation to uncover the internet community's position on administrative orders in connection with blocking websites and domain names.

Many attended the event, where pros and cons of administrative injunctions as well as proportionality were discussed. We are now inviting you to a written consultation where all interested parties have the opportunity to contribute.

The new EU regulation, the Digital Service Act (DSA), assumes that authorities can order action against illegal content on the internet without a prior court order. However, this must be done based on an order issued pursuant to Union law or national law. The new regulation reflects the general trend in society towards taking more action against illegal and harmful content online – even without necessarily relying on a court order.

DIFO expects that the increasing trend towards combating illegal and harmful content will eventually lead to new legislation that makes it relevant for DIFO to have a clear position on administrative orders.

Responses to the consultation is 9 Oktober 2023.

Read summary of oral hearing and the invitation here