What is the role of external researchers in risk assessments?

 The DSA recognises the importance of independent expertise.

VLOPs and VLOSEs must provide vetted researchers with access to platform data, so they can analyse systemic risks and verify company claims.
Researchers may examine algorithmic effects, disinformation flows, or child-safety features. Their findings can inform regulators, audits, and even public debate. Platforms are required to grant meaningful data access while protecting user privacy and trade secrets.
This ensures that risk assessments are not purely self-reported but are tested against independent scrutiny.