Resolving being forgotten in Germany

Germany is considering arbitration on the issue of what information people can force internet search engines to remove from search results. A recent European Union court decision grants consumers the “right to be forgotten." The government could seek to establish “dispute-settlement mechanisms” for consumers who file so-called take-down requests. According to the Interior Ministry there, if search providers introduce automatic deletion, politicians, prominent figures and other persons would be able to hide or even delete reports they find unpleasant. Per the EU court, companies such as Google will have to review such requests on a case-by-case basis. Reportedly, in deciding whether to remove links, companies must balance issues, including how sensitive the information is, and whether there is a public interest. Apparently, the Germans don't plan to create a single mediating authority or to put mediators under state supervision. Negotiations with Google (which has not automated the process) and other providers will begin once the government has finalized its position. See full story here-- http://bloom.bg/1mHqGRb