Harry and Meghan release blistering statement: ‘Abuse’

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have released a scathing statement – and it’s at odds with one of their close friends.

IN LONDON

Prince Harry and Meghan have hit out at social media giant Meta over its decision to axe its third-party fact-checking and soften its content moderation policies.

The company, which has Facebook, Instagram and Threads in its stable, will instead adopt an X (formerly Twitter)-style system of community-added notes.

The move has sparked widespread concerns that the spread of misinformation will become even more rampant as a result.

Among the critics is the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have made online safety one of their key campaign areas since leaving the royal family in 2020.

Meghan and Harry hit out at Meta’s new changes. Picture: Bryan Bedder/Getty Images

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In a blistering 638-word statement, the couple described the policy as one which “directly undermines free speech”.

“This should deeply concern us all,” they said, in the message shared on Sussex.com.

“Contrary to the company’s talking points, allowing more abuse and normalising hate speech serves to silence speech and expression, not foster it.

“In an already confusing and, in many instances, intentionally disruptive information environment, Meta has shown their words and commitments have very little meaning or integrity. As they announce these changes undoubtedly responding to political winds, they once again abandon public safety in favour of profit, chaos, and control.

“The company’s decision to rollback protections is so far away from its stated values and commitments to its users — including the parents and families calling for change around the globe — that it’s now deeply deceptive.”

Meghan and Harry met with victims of the Los Angeles fires on Friday. Picture: CBS

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Harry and Meghan also called out Meta, which is run by Mark Zuckerberg, for prioritising “those using the platforms to spread hate, lies and division at the expense of everyone else” and blamed it for contributing to the “global mental health crisis”.

“Having worked in this space for the last five years and witnessing the real-world devastation these decisions have, we feel there is no justification for why this industry behaves as if they are exempt from the ethical and moral standards everyone else abides by,” they went on.

Interestingly, the powerful statement is at odds with one shared by Harry’s close confidante and longtime friend, Nacho Figueras, who also starred in his recent docu-series, Polo.

The professional polo player re-shared the video statement by Zuckerberg announcing the policy change, adding the caption: “This is so important. Return of free speech.”

Harry and Meghan’s close friend, Nacho Figueras (right), released a message at odds with theirs. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

The Sussexes’ statement comes after it was confirmed that the planned January 15 premiere of Meghan’s long-awaited new Netflix series was being postponed until March in the wake of the devastating wildfires currently engulfing Los Angeles.

While their Montecito home is currently safe, Harry and Meghan’s Santa Barbara neighbourhood was labelled as a “high fire risk” late last week, with warnings of potential power shut-offs in the area.

With the devastation rapidly spreading, they released a statement urging people to take in those who had lost their homes or were under evacuation orders.

“If a friend, loved one or pet has to evacuate and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do. And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbours to see if they need help evacuating,” the couple urged their followers.

“Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys and clothing, and other essentials.”

The duke and duchess were also seen pitching in with other volunteers aiding fire victims on Friday in Los Angeles, helping distribute meals and speaking with emergency crews.

Originally published as Harry and Meghan release blistering statement: ‘Abuse’