This week, social media giants including Meta, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube faced intense questioning at the royal commission on antisemitism and social cohesion. The commission is investigating what more needs to be done to combat online hate, with accusations that these platforms have fuelled antisemitic content.
Platforms Under Scrutiny
Senior reporter Tory Shepherd spoke to Reged Ahmad about the proceedings. According to Shepherd, the platforms defended their content moderation policies but acknowledged the challenge of policing hate speech at scale. The commission heard that antisemitic content has increased significantly since the October 7 attacks, with some posts inciting violence.
Key Testimony
Meta representatives testified that they have invested in AI tools to detect hate speech, but critics argue these measures are insufficient. One witness stated, 'The algorithms amplify hateful content, and the platforms profit from engagement.' The commission is expected to release recommendations on strengthening regulations.
Impact on Social Cohesion
The royal commission also examined the broader impact on social cohesion. Evidence presented showed that online hate speech correlates with a rise in real-world incidents. The commission chair noted, 'We must hold platforms accountable for their role in spreading antisemitism.'
