European Democracy Shield and rule of law among the designed Commissioner Michael McGrath’s priorities 

European Democracy Shield and defending the rule of law will be two key points in the term of Michael McGrath, Irish designed Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law. 

“Our values are what bind us together, and defending the rule of law will be key to all my work. The rule of law is fundamental to the security of our single market” stated McGrath during his Hearing, which took place last week at the European Parliament in Brussels. 

“The time is right for a review of EU civil and company law. In this context, we will explore the benefits of digitalisation, specifically AI. We also need to examine liability rules around these technologies to ensure citizens’ rights are effectively protected. We will look into establishing a new legal status to help companies grow, creating common legal foundations for all business activity” added the designed Commissioner. 

Among the questions addressed to McGrath, the German MEP May Khan from Europe of Sovereign Nations Group chose to focus on the Digital Services Act (DSA), a regulation that “allows individuals to conduct internet searches, but we are witnessing challenges to freedom of expression. You emphasise the rule of law – how will you protect freedom of expression if these restrictions persist?”. 

“The DSA isn’t about content moderation but rather about equipping us with tools to counter systemic risks, like fact-checking, to empower citizens and ensure an EU framework for online protection – answered McGrath – Freedom of expression is within my remit, and we must strike a balance”. 

Always regarding the digital sector, the Hungarian MEP from European People’s Party Dóra Dávid addressed the designed Commissioner on the recent fitness checks of the European Commission, which has highlighted the harmful practices consumers face online, especially minors, who encounter significant issues. 

“Protecting minors online is a priority. Children often adopt new technologies early, and the Digital Fairness Act aims to address gaps not covered by current legislation, including issues like video games, gambling features, and online gaming currencies – explained McGrath – I will ensure the Commission fully supports joint enforcement sanctions by national authorities at an EU level”. 

For what concerns the accountability of items sold to EU costumers on digital platforms and the measures that will prevent unsafe products from reaching the Union’s markets  (a topic raised by the Dutch MEP from Renew Jeannette Baljeu, the designed Commissioner commented: “With the rapid growth of e-commerce, we can take several actions, including working closely with customs authorities”. 

“If confirmed – conclude McGrath – I will create a new consumer agenda for the next five years. Product safety is crucial to a thriving economy, and I am pleased that the Product Safety Regulation will come into effect next month”.