Meta Introduces Community Notes System, Ending Fact-Checking Program to Support Free Expression

Meta is overhauling its content moderation policies, replacing its third-party fact-checking program with a user-driven Community Notes system inspired by X (formerly Twitter). The move reflects a commitment to reducing censorship and promoting free expression across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

Acknowledging criticism of bias and unnecessary censorship, Meta admitted its previous moderation approach often restricted legitimate political discourse and trivial content. “We’ve been over-enforcing our rules, limiting debate, and censoring too much,” the company said.

The new Community Notes system empowers users to add context to posts, encouraging diverse perspectives in content moderation. Initially launching in the U.S., the system will expand globally over time. Meta is also scaling back automated content removal for minor violations, focusing instead on severe issues such as terrorism and fraud while relying more on user reports for lower-priority cases.

To enhance transparency and fairness, Meta plans to improve its appeals process, report enforcement errors, and provide regular updates on policy changes. Restrictions on sensitive topics like immigration and gender identity will also be eased to align with free speech standards.

The shift marks a pivotal moment for Meta as it prioritizes open dialogue and user empowerment while refining its approach to content moderation on a global scale.

Meta is also addressing concerns about transparency and fairness. It plans to expand its reporting on enforcement errors, providing users with regular updates on policy changes and performance metrics. The company has added staff to improve its appeals process, aiming to make it faster and more accurate. Advanced tools, including AI-powered language models, will be used to provide second opinions before enforcement actions are finalized.

As part of these changes, Meta is loosening restrictions on topics like immigration, gender identity, and other subjects of political discourse, aligning its policies more closely with public standards for free speech. “It’s not right that things can be said on TV or the floor of Congress but not on our platforms,” the company stated.