Platform Accountability in Technology Policy (2025-2026)
Background
Platform accountability refers to how digital platforms like Spotify or Facebook demonstrate responsible behavior in areas such as data privacy, cybersecurity, algorithm transparency and child protection. Effective regulation must strike a balance between encouraging innovation and ensuring safety and ethical conduct. Crafting these policies requires a practical approach that takes into account the interests and concerns of all stakeholders.
AI-generated content is becoming more common and difficult to distinguish as technology advances. Music streaming platforms are a growing example of how AI affects both creators and users, functioning as creative spaces and social tools. These platforms use algorithms for music recommendations and personalized advertising, often based on collected user data.
While countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia and those in the European Union have introduced general AI and online safety guidelines, there is still a gap in clear rules specifically addressing AI-generated music and how platforms should disclose nonhuman-created content to users.
Project Description
This project team will explore the intersection of law, policy and technology to evaluate the frameworks that governments use to measure digital platform accountability and how platforms can demonstrate responsible behavior. Team members will draw on existing research, literature reviews and partnerships in government and industry to:
1. Conduct a gap analysis of recent papers focusing on AI in music streaming platforms and international comparisons of AI governance frameworks.
2. Carry out a technical analysis of how recommendation engines and knowledge graphs work within these platforms.
3. Develop an influencing plan that includes stakeholder mapping and strategies to support the passage of the Protect Working Musicians Act (PWMA) in Congress.
4. Conduct an economic analysis of AI’s impact on musicians’ livelihoods.
The team’s findings will be presented to stakeholders in Washington, D.C., in the spring.
Anticipated Outputs
White papers, infographics, student blogs, mini-documentaries and podcast episodes on the Tech Policy website; research contributions to support the Protect Working Musicians Act; stakeholder presentations in Washington, D.C.
Student Opportunities
Ideally, this project team will include 3-4 graduate students and 3-4 undergraduate students with backgrounds in public policy, political science, computer science, visual and media studies, music, economics, law, business, statistics and/or engineering. Students with skills in legal analysis, data analysis and policy analysis are especially encouraged to apply.
Students will undertake research on legal and policy issues, analyze quantitative and qualitative data, and produce written reports designed to contribute to public understanding, policymaking or organizational decision-making. Students will gain skills in practical policy analysis, research, communication and networking.
All students will have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. to present work to stakeholders.
Timing
- Fall 2025: Review pre-existing work; create detailed plan for Protect Working Musicians Act influencing; analyze policies for creative profession labor organizing in foreign countries; complete stakeholder mapping
- Spring 2026: Complete international comparison white paper; finalize blogs, documentaries and podcast episodes; organize D.C. event and present to stakeholders
Crediting
Academic credit available for fall and spring semesters
See earlier related team, Platform Accountability in Technology Policy (2024-2025).