Summary:
In May 2015, Facebook deleted visually graphic content after child protection advocates complained about videos depicting decapitations. A few months later, in a quiet reversal the social network once again allowed graphic content to be posted on the site. It was criticised for allowing such material while banning other content such as nudity.
Allegations:
- David Cameron, the (former) UK Prime Minister, called Facebook’s action to reverse the ban on graphic content “irresponsible” adding that,“worried parents” required an explanation from the tech giant.
- A video from August 2012, sparked a controversy over images depicting people's heads placed on spikes in Syria prompting the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI) to demand that the social network change its practices. Stephen Balkam, the charity's chief executive, told the BBC that cover pages should be placed over graphic material to prevent people from seeing distressing images without warning.
- Dr Arthur Cassidy, a psychologist criticised Facebook's stance and suggested that the social network should implement an outright ban on clips and pictures of extreme violence. "At the end of the day warning messages will not prevent young people from seeing upsetting and psychologically damaging material," he said.
Defence:
- Facebook defended its reversal of the ban in May stating that its members had a right to show the "world in which we live." It urged its users to be more responsible while sharing such content and argued that, "When people share this type of graphic content, it is often to condemn it. If it is being shared for sadistic pleasure or to celebrate violence, Facebook removes it.”
- The company later installed graphic video warnings which required the user to click on the video to confirm they still wanted to see it after the advice.