Meta Modifies Its 'Dangerous Organizations' Moderation Policy

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Facts

  • According to a report published by The Intercept on Wednesday, social media giant Meta has admitted that its Dangerous Organizations and Individuals (DOI) moderation policy was too strict, stating it would loosen its ban on controversial topics.1
  • The policy blacklisted thousands of people and groups it deemed dangerous— from terrorists and drug cartels to rebel armies and musical acts — and banned its users from engaging in 'praise, support or representation' of those included on the list.2
  • In 2022, a third-party audit commissioned by Meta claimed the policy violated the human rights of Palestinians by stifling political speech.2
  • According to the report — which cites an internal memo — the company now says mentioning DOI will be permitted so long as it falls into one of 11 discussion categories, such as peace and conflict resolution, humanitarian relief, humor, and journalism.1
  • Other categories include international agreements or treaties, local community services, and neutral and informative descriptions of DOI activity or behavior. However, posts regarding DOI will face deletion if they don't fit into one of the categories. The company reportedly said the 'onus is on the user to prove' they've done so.2

Sources: 1Uniindia and 2Intercept.

Narratives

  • Left narrative, as provided by Transparency center. While the policy should be modified to prevent wrapping insightful and positive content in the same box as pro-terrorism content, the goal of Meta's DOI list is still a virtuous one. There's no need to allow Facebook or Instagram users to bolster violent movements or governments, which makes DOI the perfect prevention policy. Referencing a DOI in order to condemn it is good, but the internet shouldn't be a Wild West where murderers and warlords can preach their harmful rhetoric.
  • Right narrative, as provided by Intellectual takeout. Meta's secret blacklist didn't just ban Palestinian freedom fighters but specifically targeted conservative and majority-White organizations. While it banned pro-Western Civilization groups and men's rights groups, it allowed the Black Panthers and the Nation of Islam to run free. Like it or not, Meta systematically condoned and even propagated violent rhetoric against one racial group while simultaneously prohibiting them from defending themselves.