EU to Consider Discrimination, Safety in Metaverse Policy: Official
• The European Commission is preparing to set out its policy on virtual worlds in May.
• The EU wants to ensure that the developments in virtual worlds are consistent with European values such as inclusion, privacy, non-discrimination and safety.
• A senior European Commission official said that the EU needs to consider issues such as discrimination, user safety and data privacy when considering how to regulate the metaverse.
European Commission Plans to Set Out Virtual World Policy
The European Commission plans to set out policy on virtual worlds in May. It has lately set out sweeping regulations to control the ability of big companies like Google and Amazon to dominate the online space. With this new policy, the EU wishes to ensure that developments in virtual worlds are consistent with its values such as inclusion, respect of privacy, non-discrimination and equality.
Safety is Paramount
A senior European Commission official noted that it was important for people feel safe in virtual worlds just like they do in real life and perhaps even safer. Hence, when considering how to regulate the metaverse, issues such as discrimination, user safety and data privacy need to be taken into account.
Data Controls Important
Data privacy is a major concern for many people when using these virtual spaces. The EU needs to ensure that there are proper controls put in place so users can have confidence about their data not being misused or abused by third parties who may have access without their knowledge or consent.
Discrimination Must Be Avoided
Non-discrimination is also an important part of any regulation governing these environments; all users must feel welcome regardless of gender identity, race or religion. This will help create an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves freely while still feeling safe from harm or discrimination of any kind.
May Release Date For Final Policy Document
The final policy document detailing all aspects of regulation for metaverses will be released by May this year according to officials from the European Commission’s digital department DG Connect. This document should provide a comprehensive framework for regulating these spaces while ensuring fairness and protection for all users involved within them.