AGU stated that it received a significant response from Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, on Monday night regarding the discontinuation of the fact-checking system on social media platforms.
Meta announced that it will end the Independent Fact Verification Program only in the United States, while continuing fact-checking in Brazil. Additionally, the company updated its Hate Speech Policy in the country.
AGU had also accused Mark Zuckerberg’s company of specifying its plans to combat racism, homophobia, and gender violence on its platforms.
The company has implemented changes to the Odio Conduct Policy in Brazil to promote more freedom of expression and facilitate broader discussions on current societal issues.
What is AGU’s statement?
AGU has expressed serious concerns about certain aspects of the Meta document that also worry federal government agencies.
The organization states that confirming the changes and implementation of the Hate Speech Code in Brazil could potentially lead to breaches of laws and constitutional principles safeguarding the fundamental rights of Brazilian citizens.
The current platform terms of use, along with the recent changes by Meta, are not in line with Brazilian laws and do not adequately safeguard citizens’ fundamental rights, according to AGU and relevant ministries.
AGU plans to hold a public hearing on the updated Hatred Policy by Meta, in collaboration with various government ministries.
“They will be asked to join government agencies and civil society organizations focused on social media issues. Experts, scholars, and fact-checking agency representatives will also be invited,” AGU stated.
New Meta rules
Meta announced the shutdown of the fact-checking system on January 7, which has led to a decrease in the dissemination of false information and hate speech on social media. AGU’s notification was among the initial responses to the company’s updated policies.
The agency stated that spreading false information on online platforms is not acceptable. They also warned that Meta’s decision could have serious repercussions.