Decentralised Digital Platforms For Better Accountability

Abstract

The contemporary era is frequently referred to as the Information Age or the Digital Age. Because of the digital revolution, we live in an age where knowledge is instantly available at our fingertips. However, the drive to convey news instantaneously has blurred the line between information and disinformation. In today’s world, the utility of information is determined by its speed rather than its accuracy. Digital platform governance frameworks have worsened this sad trend. Digital platforms exist solely on the idea of increasing user engagement, which they accomplish through various dubious and sometimes even illegal means.

The digital revolution has enrobed our lives and proved to be a transformative force of unprecedented proportions. Unfortunately, digital platforms, particularly social media platforms, are not a safe space to freely exchange ideas and engage in meaningful discourses as advertised. They are highly regulated and closely monitored with the help of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. These algorithms enable the circulation of radicalising and discriminating content simply for the sake of user engagement. Apart from these passive algorithmic exploitations, digital platforms also actively manipulate their content and policies for the sake of maximising their profits.

The increase in power and influence of these digital platforms is proportional and arguably related to the rise of conservative political ideologies and the erosion of basic human rights. Mere policymaking and regulation have proven to be insufficient in keeping these digital platforms in check. We need to take advantage of another technological breakthrough to find the ideal solution which would keep fuelling the digital revolution without curtailing human rights. This research paper discusses how law and policymakers can leverage blockchain technology to provide better digital platforms which are decentralised, resilient, and accountable to all its users and move towards sustainable social welfare.