Meta ends censorship on word "shaheed"

Meta has decided to lift the blanket ban on the word “shaheed” or “martyr” after a year-long review by its oversight board.

The platform took the decision after the recommendation of an oversight board, being funded by Meta but working independently.

Following a year-long review, the oversight board revealed that Meta’s rules on “shaheed” failed to account for the word’s variety of meanings and resulted in the removal of content not aimed at praising violent action.

The Arabic word “shaheed” commonly translated into English as “martyr,” has long been immediately removed by Meta when considered to be referring to entities named in the Dangerous Organisations and Individuals (DOI) policy.

“However, it has multiple meanings, many of which were not intended to glorify or convey approval of violence,” stated the board in its report issued on July 2.

Board member Paolo Carozza welcomed Meta’s efforts to end a blanket ban on use of the term “shaheed”.

“This change may not be easy, but it is the right thing to do and an important step to take,” he said.

“By vowing to adopt a more nuanced approach that will better protect freedom of expression, while ensuring the most harmful material is still removed, Meta is stepping up,” Carozza added.

The company has been criticised for handling its content, especially in the Middle East. Its own study in 2021 revealed that its approach had an adverse human rights impact on Gazans and Arabic speakers.