Meta ending fact-checking, expanding free speech in US

Meta is implementing sweeping changes to its content moderation policies in the US ending third-party fact-checking, allowing more speech, and personalising political contents, aiming to prioritise free expression and reduce enforcement errors.

Ending third-party fact-checking: The current fact-checking programme in the US will be replaced by a Community Notes system, inspired by X (formerly Twitter). Users will collaboratively add context to potentially misleading posts, with diverse perspectives ensuring balanced contributions.

Allowing more speech: Restrictions on topics like immigration and gender identity will be eased, aligning Meta's policies with broader societal discourse. Automated systems will now focus primarily on illegal and severe violations, while less critical content will rely on user reports for review.

Personalised political content: Political and civic posts will reappear more prominently on platforms, personalised based on user preferences and interactions.

Meta is also shifting trust and safety operations outside California, enhancing appeal processes, and integrating AI for improved enforcement accuracy.

These changes mark a return to Meta's core commitment to free expression, echoing Mark Zuckerberg's 2019 speech advocating for open discourse as a catalyst for progress.