Twitter, the social media giant, has updated its policy on hateful conduct, with a focus on dehumanizing language. The company has added new language to its policies that specifically targets hate speech that dehumanizes people based on their age, disability, or disease. Twitter previously banned hate speech based on race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, religion, and more.
Dehumanizing language now specifically prohibited
The updated policy clarifies that Twitter will not tolerate any language that dehumanizes others, stating that “language that makes someone less than human can have repercussions off the service, including normalizing serious violence.” Twitter explains that this includes “references to mass murder, violent events, or specific means of violence in which a group has been targeted,” as well as “comparisons of people to animals, viruses, or bacteria.”
Focus on abuse and harassment
The policy update also clarifies Twitter’s stance on abuse and harassment. The platform notes that it will take action against any behavior that intends to harass, intimidate, or silence others, and that it will take into account the “context and impact of the behavior on the victim” when making enforcement decisions.
Twitter further states that it will consider the “cumulative impact of the behavior” when assessing whether an individual has violated its policies. This means that even if an individual has not broken any specific rules, their pattern of behavior could still result in enforcement action from the platform.
Twitter’s commitment to safety
In a statement, Twitter emphasized its commitment to creating a safer online environment for all users. “We’re constantly listening to feedback about how we can improve our policies and keep people safe on Twitter,” the company said. “We believe in the power of our service to help people share their stories, connect with others, and build movements for change. At the same time, we’re committed to ensuring that people can use our service without fear of abuse, harassment, or intimidation.”
Overall, Twitter’s updated policy on hateful conduct demonstrates the company’s commitment to creating a safe and inclusive online space for all users, notes NIXsolutions. With a focus on dehumanizing language and a renewed emphasis on abuse and harassment, Twitter is taking important steps to combat hate speech and promote respectful discourse on its platform.