Meta Platforms is making significant changes to its content moderation policies, aiming to prioritize free expression across its platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. The company acknowledges that previous content moderation practices, influenced by political pressures, have become overly restrictive.
Former President Donald Trump reacted positively to Meta's shift, stating that the company has "come a long way" in its approach to free speech. This change comes after Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the end of the company's fact-checking program and a return to the platform's original focus on open dialogue. Zuckerberg emphasized the importance of reducing errors, simplifying policies, and fostering free expression.
The fact-checking program, implemented after the 2016 election, will be replaced with a "Community Notes" system akin to the one used on X (formerly Twitter). Meta's Chief Global Policy Director, Joel Kaplan, explained that the company is revising content moderation rules, particularly those perceived as hindering discussions on sensitive topics such as immigration, transgender issues, and gender identity. The goal is to ensure open conversations without the fear of censorship.
Kaplan highlighted that Meta's automated systems, while intended to manage content, often make mistakes and remove content that doesn't violate the platform's standards. He clarified that Meta will continue to moderate content related to terrorism, illegal drugs, and child exploitation.
The timing of these changes coincides with the upcoming Trump administration, which Kaplan views as supportive of free expression. He contrasted this with the previous administration, which he suggests pressured companies to censor content. Zuckerberg previously admitted feeling pressure from the Biden administration regarding COVID-19 content and even satire and humor.
Kaplan emphasized the importance of the U.S. government's stance on free speech, noting that pressure from the U.S. can embolden other governments to censor content within their own countries. He expressed optimism about collaborating with the Trump administration to promote free expression and American technological advancement.
In addition to policy changes, Meta is adopting a more personalized approach to political content, allowing users to control the amount they see. The platform will concentrate its enforcement efforts on illegal and high-severity violations. This week, UFC CEO Dana White, a Trump ally, joined Meta's board, expressing enthusiasm for the future of social media, AI, and emerging technologies. Former Microsoft executive Charlie Songhurst and Exov NV CEO John Elkann also joined the board, bringing expertise in AI and European business respectively.
