Meta’s policy change threatens free speech, say Prince Harry, Meghan
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have criticised Meta's recent changes to its fact-checking and hateful content policies, calling them a direct threat to free speech.In a joint press release, the couple stated: "Meta's changes to its 'Hateful Content Policies' do not protect free expression but instead foster an environment where abuse and hate speech silence and threaten the voices of whole communities who make up a healthy democracy."
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex also criticised Meta's decision to reduce its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion commitments, adding to the growing backlash against the technology behemoth.
Meghan, who returned to Instagram a few weeks ago after deleting her accounts in 2018, has previously had "constructive conversations" with Meta executives about online safety, especially in light of the abuse she has received since marrying Prince Harry.
The criticism goes beyond the royal couple. Mastodon CEO Eugen Rochko said Meta's policy changes were "deeply troubling" and should concern anyone who values online integrity. Michael McConnell, co-chair of Meta's oversight board, shared similar concerns, pointing out that the board was not consulted on the decisions.
Meta has yet to respond publicly to growing concerns about its policy changes, which have sparked widespread attention from high-profile figures and digital rights advocates alike.
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