Network Enforcement Act

The Network Enforcement Act (Netzwerkdurchsetzungsgesetz, NetzDG), enacted in 2017, is Germany’s primary law for addressing online hate speech and illegal content. It applies to social media platforms with more than 2 million users and requires them to:

• Remove illegal content such as hate speech, defamation, or incitement to violence within 24 hours of notification. Platforms have up to seven days for more complex cases.
• Report transparency on the volume of illegal content reports they receive and the actions taken.
• Fines: Social media platforms that fail to comply with the removal requirements can face fines of up to €50 million.

Source

Other Legislation from Germany

Act on Cybercrime/Online Intellectual Property Protection

• Act on the Protection of Intellectual Property
• Federal Data Protection Act
• Telecommunications Act
• The Telemedia Act

Cooperation and International Efforts

• Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs)
• National Security Strategy

Criminal Code/Law Enforcement

• Criminal Code

Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Protection

• Critical Infrastructure Protection (KRITIS)
• Cyber Security Strategy for Germany
• IT Security Act

Data Protection and Privacy

• E-Privacy Regulation
• Federal Data Protection Act
• Telecommunications Act
• Telecommunications-Telemedia Data Protection Act

Online Hate Speech and Illegal Content

• Digital Services Act
• State Media Treaty (Medienstaatsvertrag)
• Telemedia Act