The International Fact-Checking Network stated on Thursday that Meta founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg's claim about the fact-checking program on Facebook and Instagram crossing into censorship is "false."

Figure 1. International Fact-Checking Network Refutes Zuckerberg's Censorship Allegation.

The International Fact-Checking Network cautioned that operations are currently limited to the United States, but if the program were to end globally, it could have a devastating impact on over 100 countries. "Some of these countries are highly vulnerable to misinformation that can lead to political instability, election interference, mob violence, and even genocide," the network warned. Figure 1. International Fact-Checking Network Refutes Zuckerberg's Censorship Allegation.

It further emphasized, "If Meta decides to end the program worldwide, it is almost certain to cause real-world harm in many regions."

AFP participates in Facebook's fact-checking program in 26 languages, where the platform pays to use fact-checks from approximately 80 global organizations across Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Under this program, content marked as "false" is downgraded in news feeds, reducing its visibility. Additionally, users attempting to share such posts are shown an article explaining why the content is misleading.

Zuckerberg's Censorship Claim

Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg recently made a claim that Facebook and Instagram’s fact-checking program has started to act like censorship. This suggestion has raised concerns about the role of fact-checking and its potential misuse on social media platforms.

International Fact-Checking Network's Response

The International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) swiftly responded, calling Zuckerberg’s assertion "false." They stressed that the fact-checking program was not about censorship, but rather about ensuring the accuracy of information on Meta's platforms.

Current Fact-Checking Operations in the U.S.

Currently, the fact-checking program is active only in the United States. The IFCN warned that if the program were to end globally, the consequences could be severe. This would particularly affect countries vulnerable to misinformation, which can lead to instability and violence.

Risks of Ending the Program

The IFCN highlighted the potential dangers of halting the fact-checking program, especially in regions where misinformation could spur political unrest, election interference, and even acts of violence or genocide. They argued that removing this system would likely result in harm worldwide.

How the Fact-Checking Program Works

The fact-checking program involves partnerships with about 80 organizations worldwide. These fact-checkers review content in 26 languages, and when something is flagged as false, it is downgraded in news feeds to limit its spread. Additionally, users who try to share this content are presented with an explanation of why the post is misleading.

Global Impact: What Happens If the Program Ends?

This segment would discuss the global ramifications if Meta were to pull back its fact-checking efforts. We would explore the potential consequences for countries vulnerable to misinformation, looking at past incidents where fake news contributed to political instability, violence, or unrest. This would emphasize the importance of maintaining these programs, especially in developing nations.

The Future of Social Media Moderation and Misinformation

The final part would address the future of fact-checking, social media moderation, and the balance between free speech and preventing harm. We would explore what the ongoing debate about censorship versus responsible moderation means for platforms like Facebook and Instagram, as well as what changes might be expected in the near future in terms of policies, technology, and user engagement with misinformation.

Source: TechXplore

Cite this article:

Priyadharshini S (2025),"International Fact-Checking Network Debunks Zuckerberg's Censorship Claim",AnaTechmaz, pp. 62