On March 19, 2025, Nagoya University hosted a special lecture by Professor Vassilis Hatzopoulos (Panteion University, Athens, Greece) on the topic "The EU as a Source of Global Standards in Regulating Platforms: The Example of the Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act." The event was held in a hybrid format, allowing both in-person and online participation.
Professor Hatzopoulos examined how the EU has emerged as a global leader in digital regulation, focusing on the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Digital Markets Act (DMA). He discussed how these laws aim to govern online platforms, protect fundamental rights, and ensure fair competition in digital markets.

Key topics included:
• The EU’s legislative process and its role in setting digital standards.
• The Brussels Effect—how EU regulations influence global markets.
• The DSA’s impact on online platforms and content moderation.
• The DMA’s approach to regulating "gatekeepers" like Big Tech companies.
• Reactions from major tech firms and the regulatory challenges ahead.

During the Q&A session, participants raised critical questions about the extraterritorial impact of EU regulations and their effect on U.S. tech giants. Professor Hatzopoulos explained that while most affected firms are American, the EU’s main goal is ensuring fair competition and protecting fundamental rights.
The lecture, financially supported by the Shinnippon-Hoki Foundation, attracted students, scholars, and legal professionals, fostering a lively discussion on the future of digital governance.