Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Criticize Meta's Fact-Checking

Concerns Raised Over Meta's Policy Shifts

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have publicly expressed their dissatisfaction with recent alterations to Meta’s fact-checking procedures. Their statement asserts that these changes “directly undermine free speech.”

The couple contends that Meta’s revisions to its “Hateful Content Policies” do not genuinely safeguard freedom of expression. Instead, they believe these policies cultivate an atmosphere where abusive and hateful rhetoric can suppress and endanger the voices of diverse communities vital to a functioning democracy.

Criticism of Abandoned DEI Commitments

Furthermore, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have voiced their disapproval regarding Meta’s decision to discontinue its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commitments.

Meghan Markle reactivated her Instagram account several weeks prior, having initially removed her social media presence in 2018. She has previously engaged in “constructive conversations” with Meta executives concerning online safety, stemming from her experiences with online abuse following her marriage to Prince Harry.

Wider Industry Response

The changes have also drawn criticism from other figures within the tech industry. Eugen Rochko, CEO of Mastodon, described the alterations as “deeply troubling” and “a concern to anyone with a conscience.”

Michael McConnell, who serves as co-chair of Meta’s oversight board, similarly conveyed his concerns. He noted that the oversight board was not included in consultations regarding these policy changes.

Meta’s decisions are prompting a broader discussion about the balance between free speech and the responsibility of social media platforms to moderate harmful content.

• The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have directly criticized the policy changes.
• Concerns center on the potential for increased hate speech.
• Lack of consultation with the oversight board has also been highlighted.