In July 2020, Facebook’s policies for addressing hate speech came under increasing global scrutiny as big businesses boycotted advertising on the platform. In response to this moment, UK charities joined forces to pause, take stock of what was happening and bring recommendations of change to the social media owners.
As charities, we recognise that these platforms have a role to play in allowing us to connect with supporters and beneficiaries from all backgrounds. But we also know that not enough is being done to stop posts which incite hate and violence being made visible. No one should have to see these messages in their day to day lives, and especially not when trying to access ongoing information and support.
We aim to help to prevent online hate, to better support our beneficiaries, staff, volunteers and supporters and to deliver on our promises as charities.