The False Promise of Unrestricted Platforms
In January 2025, Mark Zuckerberg announced that Meta platforms like Facebook and Instagram would end third-party fact-checking, reduce content restrictions on controversial topics, and scale back automated moderation systems. This decision continues a concerning trend that impacts how social media shapes public discourse.
While Zuckerberg presented the changes as strengthening free expression, similar policies at X (formerly Twitter) have shown how reduced moderation can fragment and polarise public discourse. By removing these safeguards in the name of free speech, Meta is likely to actually reduce diverse expression across its platforms.
The myth of free speech on social media
This is because unrestricted speech does not equal democratic discourse. In practice, “free speech” on social media often manifests as harassment that silences diverse perspectives. When platforms step back from moderating content, they hand control to those who use intimidation to dominate conversations and silence dissenting opinions. Victims of this harassment, which frequently targets marginalised and minority voices, are essentially pushed out of public conversations entirely. Free expression is only awarded to the loudest— and often the most offensive— voices.
Creating safe digital spaces, for everyone
The Wikimedia Movement takes a different path. We know that true discourse thrives when people feel safe to contribute their perspectives and expertise. That’s why we aim to create digital spaces where everyone can freely share in the sum of all human knowledge without fear of discrimination or harassment.
Our projects like Wikipedia show that clear community guidelines and protection against harassment create more open dialogue, not less. While the movement’s Universal Code of Conduct established important behavioural guidelines, Wikimedia CH continuously looks for ways to better protect and empower the volunteers who make Wikipedia and other Wikimedia projects possible.
That’s why we are now beginning to offer practical support – from psychological counselling to legal assistance – to minimise the harassment and hate speech that create barriers to participation in our platforms.
Real discourse requires moderation
Meta’s platforms shape how billions of people communicate and access information. Their new approach to moderation affects who can safely participate in crucial public debates. As these spaces become more hostile, we lose essential voices and perspectives from our collective dialogue.
The choice between moderation and free expression is artificial. Real freedom of speech requires safe spaces for public discourse to flourish. This means establishing and maintaining community standards that protect users while encouraging open dialogue.
Support truly free knowledge
At Wikimedia CH, we promote digital spaces where everyone can safely contribute to human knowledge. As a non-profit organisation that doesn’t accept advertising or government funding, we rely on donations from individuals and organisations who share our vision of truly inclusive free knowledge to support the volunteers who make our platforms possible.
Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to help us continue this vital work. Your support helps maintain Wikipedia and other Wikimedia projects as spaces where knowledge remains free, accessible and safe for everyone.
