On Tuesday (7), Meta announced a new community rating system for Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Like the Community Notes feature on X (formerly Twitter), this system allows users to identify potential misinformation in posts and add relevant context. The feature will begin testing in the United States in the coming months.
This shift marks the end of Meta’s reliance on independent fact-checking organizations, which have been part of the platform since 2016. Meta explained that while the fact-checking program aimed to provide accurate information, it often led to perceived bias and claims of political interference. The company described the initiative as having evolved into “a tool for censorship rather than education.”
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg also shared a video message emphasizing his commitment to freedom of expression on Facebook and Instagram. He mentioned the company’s efforts to “return to its roots” by focusing on open dialogue. Zuckerberg also referenced a partnership with the U.S. government, led by President Donald Trump, to address challenges from international entities that allegedly target U.S.-based companies.
How community notes will work on Instagram
Meta’s community notes feature will operate similarly to X’s (formerly Twitter) system. Users can flag posts they believe contain misinformation and provide external links to support their claims. The community then votes to determine whether a note should be added for additional context.
Here’s how the system will work, based on details shared by Meta:
- User-Led Content Moderation: Meta will not have any direct control over writing or approving community notes. The decision to include a note depends entirely on user engagement and consensus.
- Consensus-Driven Approval: For a note to be added, a sufficient number of users must agree on its relevance and accuracy.
- Subtle Presentation: Unlike the former fact-checking system, which displayed warnings prominently, the new notes will occupy less screen space. Users can still view the original post alongside the contextual note.
- Diverse Perspectives: Meta is developing ways to include “different points of view” within the notes to ensure a balanced representation of opinions.
Rollout Plans
The new system will begin testing in the U.S. over the coming months. Meta has opened registrations for users interested in contributing on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.
For comparison, X launched its notes feature in 2021, with a broader distribution in 2022.
Partnership with Trump and changes to moderation
In a recent video, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg addressed significant changes to the company’s policies, emphasizing efforts to promote freedom of expression. Zuckerberg also openly discussed Meta’s collaboration with U.S. President Donald Trump and accused governments and media outlets of pressuring social networks into adopting censorship practices.
Key Changes to Content Policies
One of the most notable shifts is simplifying Meta’s content moderation rules, particularly concerning sensitive topics like immigration, gender identity, and political debates. The company admitted that its previous guidelines were overly restrictive, often leading to disproportionate penalties.
“It’s not right that certain statements can be made on TV or in Congress but are prohibited on our platforms,” Meta stated in a press release.
Political Content Returns
Meta also announced the return of political content to platforms like Instagram and Threads, reversing earlier restrictions implemented during the last presidential election. Zuckerberg highlighted the importance of “maintaining friendly and positive communities” while ensuring users can personalize their experience. Content visibility will now be tailored based on user behavior, such as liking or engaging with posts.
Partnership with Trump
Zuckerberg emphasized Meta’s commitment to “protecting freedom of expression worldwide,” mentioning ongoing efforts with President Trump’s administration. He also criticized international regulations, such as European Union laws and secretive rulings in Latin America, claiming they institutionalize censorship and suppress online content. However, he provided no concrete evidence to support these allegations.
UFC CEO Joins Meta’s Board
Zuckerberg’s remarks come shortly after Meta announced UFC CEO Dana White as its newest board member. White, a known Trump supporter, has publicly appeared alongside the former president at UFC events.
Implications
These changes signal a major shift in how Meta approaches content regulation, freedom of expression, and its role in global political discourse. While the new direction aligns with calls for less restrictive moderation, critics may scrutinize the company’s ties to political figures and its framing of international regulations.
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