Commentary: How do we get platforms to share data with independent researchers? Regulation alone will not cut it: a commentary on Livingston et al. (2023), Bourgaize et al. (2025)

TL;DR

This commentary discusses the challenges of getting digital platforms to share data with independent researchers and argues that regulation alone is not enough.

Contribution

The paper proposes a holistic strategy involving regulation, public opinion, and oversight to improve data access for researchers.

Findings

Platforms may resist or only partially comply with data-sharing regulations.

A multi-faceted approach is needed to influence platforms and ensure data access.

Independent research is essential to understand and mitigate platform impacts on society.

Abstract

We respond to articles in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health journal about whether, and under what, conditions researchers should collaborate with digital companies. In particular, we discuss the challenges academics face to access and study platform data. Independent academic research in this area is crucial for identifying and combating any potential negative effects that platforms can have on individuals and societies. Past discussions on academic data access have focused on platform regulation and data governance. However, in this commentary, we argue that even if key stakeholders agree on a regulatory and governance model, platforms have strong incentives to not comply—or to comply only partially. We advocate for a more holistic strategy aiming at influencing regulation, public opinion, news media, diverse political groups and for building a robust oversight structure.