Meta Platforms Expands Hate Speech Policy to Target Antisemitic Posts Involving “Zionists”

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has announced that it will be taking a stronger stance against hate speech targeting “Zionists.” In a recent blog post, Meta stated that it would remove content that attacks “Zionists” when it is not explicitly about the political movement. Specifically, the company will remove content that uses antisemitic stereotypes or threatens harm through intimidation or violence directed at Jews or Israelis.

This new policy is an expansion of Meta’s existing hate speech policy, which already prohibits direct attacks on individuals based on their race, ethnicity, religious affiliation, disability, and gender identity. However, the previous policy only considered the term “Zionist” as a proxy for Jewish or Israeli people in limited circumstances. Meta recognized that this approach did not adequately address the broader ways in which people use the term.

The decision to update the policy came after consultations with 145 stakeholders from civil society and academia across various global regions. Meta’s goal was to ensure that their policies align with the concerns and perspectives of a diverse range of individuals and organizations.

The timing of this policy update is significant, as tensions in the Middle East have been escalating due to the Israel-Hamas war. Meta has faced criticism in the past for how it handles content related to the Middle East, and these criticisms intensified during the conflict. Rights groups accused the company of suppressing content supportive of Palestinians on Facebook and Instagram.

By taking a stronger stance against hate speech targeting “Zionists,” Meta aims to address these concerns and create a safer and more inclusive online environment. The company’s decision to consult with stakeholders from various backgrounds demonstrates a commitment to incorporating diverse perspectives and ensuring that its policies are fair and effective.

In conclusion, Meta Platforms’ recent announcement regarding its hate speech policy reflects a willingness to address the misuse of the term “Zionist” and combat antisemitism on its platforms. This policy update, informed by consultations with stakeholders, shows Meta’s dedication to promoting inclusivity and combating hate speech in a proactive and responsible manner.