Calling Women ‘Household Objects’ and Others Now Permitted on Facebook

By Evans Momodu
2 minute digest


Meta has announced significant changes to its content moderation policies on Facebook and Instagram, signaling a shift toward fewer restrictions on user speech and a broader interpretation of "free expression."

These changes include the elimination of professional fact-checking and updates to its hateful conduct policy, allowing content that was previously prohibited.

Among the most contentious updates to the hateful conduct policy are provisions now permitting language that refers to "women as household objects or property" or describes transgender and non-binary individuals as "it."

Additionally, Meta's policy will no longer prohibit "allegations of mental illness or abnormality" based on gender or sexual orientation if such statements align with political or religious discourse.

The adjustments come as part of CEO Mark Zuckerberg's broader strategy to position Meta as a platform that prioritises free expression.

These policy changes, effective immediately, were first reported by Wired and follow hints from Meta earlier in the day that the company would ease restrictions on sensitive topics such as immigration and gender identity.

Critics are likely to view these developments as a rollback of protections for marginalised groups, while proponents may argue it represents a necessary expansion of free speech.

The move underscores Meta's ongoing shift under Zuckerberg’s leadership as he seeks to redefine the company’s approach to content moderation in the face of political and societal pressures.
Source: CNN