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Meta Faktencheck Zuckerberg Trump_NGO Pulse Magazin

Meta, Fact-Checks, and NGOs: Quo Vadis Social Media?

At the beginning of January 2025, Mark Zuckerberg announced that Meta would end its collaboration with external fact-checkers in the United States. Instead, a system similar to the “Community Notes” on X is to be introduced. Users will be able to verify and label the accuracy of posts themselves. The billionaire justifies this move with the desire to promote “free speech” and reduce “censorship.”

 

Alignment with the Trump Administration

In parallel, Meta is showing a clear alignment with the incoming Trump administration. The company donated one million US dollars to Donald Trump’s inauguration fund. Additionally, Joel Kaplan, a former advisor to President George W. Bush and long-standing liaison to the Republicans, has been appointed as Meta’s new head of global policy. This personnel decision signals a clear strategic positioning of the company in the political landscape.

 

Impact on Social Media

This will have significant consequences for Facebook and Instagram. Without oversight from independent fact-checkers, the spread of disinformation is likely to increase dramatically. Users often lack the ability to critically evaluate content. Furthermore, this decision will likely turn social media platforms into spaces for the dissemination of propaganda and false narratives. So-called “alternative facts” could find their way from “alternative media” into the mainstream and reach a wider audience.

Additionally, there is a risk that algorithms will deliberately favor manipulative content to boost engagement rates. This polarization will further escalate social tensions and degrade the quality of debate on social media platforms.

Impact on NGOs

The mentioned changes have specific consequences for NGOs that rely on social media as key communication channels.

 

Communication and Reach

NGOs face the challenge of disseminating their messages in an environment increasingly saturated with disinformation. The loss of fact-checking mechanisms means that even well-researched content can be more easily questioned. Simultaneously, the visibility of NGO content might decrease due to algorithms prioritizing other topics. Organizations must therefore develop new strategies to effectively reach their audiences and build trust, such as leveraging influencers or creating independent platforms.

 

Shitstorms and Hate Speech

With the shift to less moderated platforms, the risk of NGOs becoming targets of shitstorms and hate speech will increase. Organizations addressing controversial topics like human rights or climate change could face coordinated attacks. This requires robust crisis communication plans and a trained team capable of responding quickly and effectively to such incidents.

 

Disinformation and Counterstrategies

Another area of concern is the spread of disinformation specifically aimed at damaging the reputation of NGOs. This could involve fabricated content or manipulated narratives. NGOs must be equipped to identify such attacks and counter them through transparent communication and the development of strong networks.

 

Forging Alliances

Given the uncertainties and risks in social media, collaboration among NGOs is becoming increasingly important. Building alliances can help pool resources and create unified standards to combat disinformation. Such networks can also apply pressure on platforms like Meta to rethink their content protection policies.

 

Practical Tips for Navigating Social Media Changes

  1. Targeted Training: Regularly train your team on handling disinformation and creating resilient communication plans. A well-informed team can quickly respond to challenges and maintain your organization’s credibility.
  2. Utilizing Independent Platforms: Use independent channels like your own blogs, newsletters, or specialized platforms to disseminate your messages directly, reducing dependence on social media.
  3. Monitoring Tools: Implement real-time monitoring tools to detect mentions and content early, enabling you to identify and address shitstorms or disinformation promptly.
  4. Promoting Digital Literacy: Provide your audience with educational resources to better recognize and challenge disinformation. This not only enhances your credibility but also strengthens the trustworthiness of your content.
  5. Collaborations: Work closely with other NGOs and trusted entities to develop joint strategies and raise a stronger collective voice against disinformation

 

 

Preparing for Social Media Changes is Crucial

Meta’s recent decisions highlight how quickly the digital landscape and conditions for NGOs can shift, allowing concerning developments to gain momentum. Organizations must stay vigilant and adapt flexibly to these changes. It is essential to develop innovative communication strategies, strengthen independent platforms and channels, and intensify collaboration with other stakeholders. Only by doing so can you effectively convey your messages in an increasingly polarized and uncertain digital environment.

 

 

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