Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry advocate for online safety, expressing concern over Meta’s decision to eliminate independent fact-checking, viewing it as a threat to democracy and public safety. They emphasize the risks of increased hate speech and mental health crises, particularly for their children. In a statement, they criticize Meta’s prioritization of profit over user welfare and urge the company to focus on public well-being, while reaffirming their commitment to combating online hate and misinformation.
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan’s Stand for Online Safety
Duchess Meghan, aged 43, and Prince Harry, 40, have been champions for online safety ever since stepping back from their royal duties in the UK. They are increasingly concerned about the implications of recent developments on social media, fearing for the welfare of billions globally.
Warnings About the Impact of Social Media Changes
The recent announcement from ‘Meta’, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, regarding the elimination of independent fact-checking in the USA has raised alarms for the couple. They perceive this as a substantial threat to democracy and the principles of free speech.
In a detailed statement shared on their platform, Sussex.com, they express their concerns: ‘With the announcement of these changes, which undoubtedly respond to the political winds, the company is once again sacrificing public safety for profit, chaos, and control.’ This statement carries significant weight, particularly as the US prepares for a new presidential administration, with Donald Trump set to take office on January 20, 2025, and raises pointed criticism of ‘Meta’ founder, Mark Zuckerberg.
Harry and Meghan highlight the risks of a ‘global mental health crisis’ stemming from the pervasive hate speech proliferating on social media. They emphasize their commitment to their values, particularly as parents of Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3, who are growing up in a digital age filled with potential hazards.
Meghan, having faced hate speech and threats herself, finds this situation particularly troubling. In their urgent message, they note, ‘Many use the platform to spread joy, build community, and share helpful information. Unfortunately, Meta’s recent decisions contradict its stated mission of ‘building human connections’ and instead bolster those who perpetuate hate, lies, and division.’
The Sussexes call upon ‘Meta’ to reconsider its policies, stating that social media ought to prioritize ‘the safety and well-being of the public.’ They express strong disapproval of the company’s leadership choices, criticizing the prioritization of profit and personal gain over user welfare and mental health.
Reiterating their commitment, Harry and Meghan declare they will persist in their fight against online hate speech and misinformation. They also encourage advertisers associated with the platform to scrutinize these recent policy changes critically.