“Allowing hate speech and harmful content online has real consequences. “Regulating this content is not censorship,” he said. Volker Türk wrote in
In a longer LinkedIn post on the same topic, Mr. Türk claimed that efforts to create safe online spaces were marked by “censorship…ignoring what an unregulated space means.” Some people are silent. There are people in particular whose voices are marginalized. At the same time, allowing hate online limits freedom of expression and can even cause harm in the real world.”
Meta Chief Mark Zuckerberg announced Tuesday that the company would discontinue its fact-checking program in the United States. Fact-checkers said there was a risk of appearing politically biased and that self-regulation could lead to excessive censorship. He added that user trust had been eroded as he called for a return to freer speech on the Meta platform.
The International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) reportedly dismissed Zuckerberg’s claims as “false” and warned that they could cause harm.
digital potential
Mr. Türk emphasized that social media platforms have tremendous ability to positively shape society by connecting people. But it can also fuel conflict, encourage hatred, and threaten people’s safety.
“At its best, social media is a place where people with diverse views can interact, even if they don’t always agree.“He said.
The UN Human Rights Secretary-General said, “We will continue to demand accountability and governance in the digital space in line with human rights.” “It protects public discourse, builds trust, and protects the dignity of all people.”
When asked about the impact of Meta’s recent decision on the UN’s social media policy, a UN spokesperson in Geneva emphasized that the global organization continuously monitors and evaluates online spaces.
“Providing factual information remains important.said Michele Zaccheo, Head of TV, Radio and Webcasts, who added that the UN remains committed to providing evidence-based information on social media platforms.
The World Health Organization (WHO) also reaffirmed its commitment to providing high-quality, science-based health information by maintaining a presence on various online platforms.
In response to the growing crisis caused by digital misinformation, the UN Department of Global Communications (DCG) has been actively working to combat false narratives.
This includes developing a code of conduct for information integrity, known as the UN Global Principles for Information Integrity.
