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The independent body tasked with overseeing Meta's content moderation decisions is facing staff reductions, sparking concerns about its ability to effectively hold the social media giant accountable.
According to the Washington Post on Monday, this development was disclosed by sources familiar with the matter who spoke on anonymity.
The Oversight Board, comprised of academics, experts, and lawyers, was created in 2019 as Meta sought to distance itself from controversial content moderation decisions.
However, some employees were recently informed that their positions were at risk, according to anonymous sources.
Critics have long questioned the Board's effectiveness, citing its reliance on Meta for funding and information.
These job cuts, primarily impacting staff supporting board members, further fuel concerns about the Board's autonomy.
"The targeted cuts will allow the Oversight Board to further optimize our operations by prioritizing the most impactful aspects of our work," stated Stephen Neal, Chairperson of the Oversight Board Trust.
Meta maintains its commitment to the Board, emphasizing its implementation of all binding content decisions. "We value the Board's perspective," said Meta spokesperson Andy Stone.
However, the Board itself is exploring alternative funding sources and expanded scope. One potential avenue involves becoming an appeals body for content moderation on other platforms under the EU's Digital Services Act.
Despite facing criticism for a slow pace in issuing decisions, the Board has recently taken on high-profile cases. These include reviewing manipulated media policies and the suspension of Donald Trump's account following the January 6th Capitol attack.
The Board can issue binding decisions on user appeals related to content removal, while policy recommendations remain non-binding.
Meta's cost-cutting efforts dubbed the "year of efficiency" in 2023, resulted in job cuts and a flatter organizational structure. This raises questions about whether the Board will have the necessary resources to fulfil its intended purpose.
The future of Meta's Oversight Board remains uncertain, with its effectiveness and autonomy facing scrutiny amidst staff reductions and ongoing financial dependence on Meta.
