Meta, X, and YouTube sign new EU code of conduct to combat hate speech

Meta

Meta, Twitter aka X and YouTube have signed an updated Code of Conduct by the European Commision. The new code aims to handle hate speech better and the code also makes sure that the social media platforms follow the rules set out by the DSA.

The new Code of Conduct by the EU aims to improve how social media platforms deal with content that violates hate speech laws in the EU countries as well as other countries. However, the definition of hate speech is very subjective and it is important to decide who gets to make the call.

Transparency is a big part of the updated Code. Platforms are now expected to be clearer about their content moderation policies and how they handle illegal content. They must tell users what counts as illegal hate speech and explain the steps they take when they remove it.

Another change is that users will have better tools to report hate speech, and they should receive quicker feedback on what happens after they make a report. This gives users more power to take action when they see harmful content.

The new Code also encourages the companies to work closely with governments, law enforcement, and other organizations to tackle hate speech more effectively. Platforms will be required to submit regular reports showing how quickly they’re removing harmful content and how much they’ve taken down.

While freedom of expression is important, the European Commission stresses that it shouldn’t be used to spread hate or violence. Hate speech threatens core values like equality and dignity, and the EU has long had rules in place making hate speech based on things like race, religion, and gender a crime in many countries.