Australian regulator demands answers from Twitter over online hate handling
Despite having fewer users compared to platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, Twitter has received the highest number of online hate complaints in the country.
Australia’s regulatory body is demanding answers from Twitter about its handling of online hate speech. Since Elon Musk took over, lifted bans on 62,000 accounts, and fired content moderation teams, the platform has become the most complained-about in the country.
The eSafety Commissioner has been campaigning for increased accountability from Twitter and has already asked for information regarding the platform’s management of online child abuse material. Commissioner Julie Inman Grant sent a legal notice to Twitter after receiving many complaints about online hate, even though Twitter has fewer users than platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.
The notice requires Twitter to respond within 28 days or face a daily fine. The demand for explanation arises amid a national debate on recognising Indigenous people in the constitution, with targeted abuse on Twitter cited as a concern.
The eSafety Commissioner’s letter calls for Twitter to clarify its impact assessments when reinstating banned accounts, its engagement with affected communities, and its enforcement of policies against hateful conduct.
About author
DW Team
The GIP Digital Watch Observatory team, consisting of over 30 digital policy experts from around the world, excels in the fields of research and analysis on digital policy issues. The team is backed by the creative prowess of Creative Lab Diplo and the technical expertise of the Diplo tech team.