LFU:online

This course provides an overview of the foundations of EU information technology law.

• Students know selected EU legal rules that apply to the internet and the computational processing of data.
• They are aware of current developments in EU law and policy relating to digital technologies.
• They are able to draw on relevant information contained in legislation, policy instruments and academic literature.
• They are able to develop critical arguments on legal issues raised by the use of digital technologies and communicate them.

This course examines risks and opportunities of digital technologies from a legal perspective.

We will examine a selection of legal rules that apply to the internet and the computational processing of data. The analysis will include relevant legislation, court decisions and policy instruments. Moreover, we will identify gaps in the existing legal framework and reflect on potential regulatory reforms. The focus of the course will be on the law of the European Union that regulates the use of digital technologies.

Three main topics:

• Foundations of EU data protection law: When does the (in)famous General Data Protection Regulation apply? What are the six main legal bases for processing data under the GDPR? Which rules have to be observed when personal data are processed?
  
  
• EU legal framework for Artificial Intelligence: What is Artificial Intelligence? What does the European Union do to ensure that Artificial Intelligence is developed and used in a way that complies with legal rules and ethical values? We will examine the new AI Regulation that was recently proposed by the European Commission.
  
  
• EU legal framework for digital platforms: Which EU legal rules apply to digital platforms such as Uber, AirBnB or Youtube? Which legal rules protect us from hate speech, fake news and terrorist propaganda on online platforms? Which main legal rules for digital platforms do the new Digital Services Act ad Digital Markets Act stipulate? 

Short lectures combined with interactive exercises (individual, in pairs and in groups).

Part of the course will rely on the flipped classroom approach, an instructional strategy that focuses on active student engagement and learning.

Final, written exam at the end of the semester.

All readings will be provided via OLAT.

To participate in this course, you have to enrol via LFU-online.

This lecture will be given in English. You are expected to speak English in class and to draft your answers to the exam questions in English.