Meta's Latest Free Speech Ruling on a Controversial Phrase Fuels Debate While the Stock Is Up 47% Year-to-Date

Author: Zaheer Anwari | September 06, 2024 03:18pm

• Meta's Oversight Board has ruled to allow the use of the phrase "From the River to the Sea" on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
• The phrase "From the River to the Sea" is considered controversial, viewed by some as antisemitic and by others as a call for Palestinian solidarity and rights.
• The decision reflects Meta's ongoing challenge in balancing user safety with the principles of free speech globally.

 

Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:META) Oversight Board has decided to allow the phrase "From the River to the Sea" on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. This decision came after reviewing three cases in which the phrase was used.

The board concluded that it doesn't violate Meta's policies against hate speech and incitement. Their ruling highlights a commitment to protecting political speech, despite the complex and often controversial interpretations of the phrase.

Historically, "From the River to the Sea" has been divisive. Some view it as bordering on antisemitism, implying the dissolution of Israel, while others see it as a call for Palestinian solidarity, emphasizing their right to live freely in their ancestral lands.

The board noted that the phrase doesn't promote violence or discrimination based on protected characteristics, nor does it explicitly support any groups, including those like Hamas.

This decision to not ban the phrase outright comes from understanding its different meanings. The board emphasized that banning or flagging it could infringe on free political expression rights.

This ruling reflects Meta's ongoing challenge to balance user safety with free speech on a global scale.

Focusing on Meta's financial health, the company's stock performance shows a dynamic pattern. Since March 2024, the stock has hovered around the $500 mark, a key point for investors.

After hitting a record high on August 22, the stock dipped 7%, nearly falling back to $500, but then rebounded to close at $504 and continued to rise.

By the end of August, it increased by 9% and has risen 47% year-to-date. The stock remains volatile within the $414 to $544 range.

Market analysts suggest that breaking above this range could indicate a strong upward trend, reflecting investor confidence in Meta's strategy and stability.

After the closing bell on Wednesday, September 5, the stock closed at $236.17, trading up by 0.30%.

This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Posted In: META