EU’s Digital Justice Revolution: McGrath Pushes AI and Reform in Parliament

In a recent session of the European Parliament’s Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI), Michael McGrath, Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection, detailed his plans to modernize the EU’s civil and criminal justice systems through digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).

Commissioner McGrath emphasized his commitment to improving legal instruments, reducing burdens on businesses, and integrating AI to enhance efficiency and accessibility within the justice sector. He highlighted the need for national justice systems to embrace digital transformation, which he argued would lead to cost savings and improved service delivery for both citizens and businesses. The Commissioner further noted that his upcoming strategy would prioritize these areas while addressing critical issues such as insolvency, AI liability, and the protection of vulnerable adults.

Media Freedom and Platform Accountability

Dutch MEP Lara Wolters (S&D) raised concerns about the conduct of major online platform executives, referencing figures like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, as well as TikTok’s ongoing scrutiny by the European Commission over its algorithm. She pressed Commissioner McGrath for his stance on safeguarding media freedom under the EU’s legislative framework, particularly the implementation of Article 18 of the Media Freedom Act.

McGrath responded by underscoring the Act’s role in ensuring transparency in content moderation. Under Article 18, media outlets will have the right to be informed about the rationale behind content removals by large platforms and will be allowed to respond within 24 hours. He confirmed that the majority of the Act’s provisions would come into force in August, with the European Commission actively supporting Member States in its implementation.

AI, Intellectual Property, and Democracy Protections

Spanish MEP Maravillas Abadia Jover (EPP) turned the discussion towards the challenges that digital transformation presents to intellectual property rights, particularly in emerging sectors such as AI and digital assets. In response, McGrath acknowledged these concerns and reassured that the Commission’s digital strategy would focus on protecting intellectual property across digital environments, including AI-driven industries and broadcasting.

Romanian MEP Victor Negrescu (S&D) sought further clarification on the European Democracy Shield and ongoing efforts to combat foreign interference in democratic processes. Commissioner McGrath elaborated on the initiative, highlighting the necessity of collaboration between Parliament and the Commission, with significant progress expected within the year.

Tackling Disinformation on Digital Platforms

Addressing the growing issue of disinformation, Spanish MEP Leire Pajin (S&D) asked whether the Commission planned to introduce stricter measures against the spread of misleading content, particularly by AI and digital platforms. McGrath reaffirmed that the Digital Services Act (DSA) already mandates clear obligations for platforms to mitigate risks to democracy. He emphasized the role of civil society organizations and fact-checkers in this battle, noting that these elements would remain integral to the European Democracy Shield’s ongoing development.

As the European Commission pushes forward with its digital justice and AI strategy, the debate underscored the challenges and opportunities posed by new technologies. With legislative measures like the Media Freedom Act and the Digital Services Act set to shape the digital landscape, EU lawmakers continue to navigate the balance between innovation, regulation, and fundamental rights.