"Hate Speech" on Social Media

For John, BLUF:  Nanny Nations.  Nothing to see here; just move along.

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Web giants sign up to EU hate speech rules

Duncan Robinson in Brussels

Google, Facebook, Twitter and Microsoft have signed up to new EU rules on taking down illegal hate speech as lawmakers and internet giants try to cope with violent racist abuse and technically savvy terrorists online.

The “code of conduct” will require companies to “review the majority” of flagged hate speech within 24 hours — and remove it if necessary — and even develop “counter narratives” to combat the growing problem.

Online hate speech has created a policy minefield for businesses and government. The speed at which the issue has developed has left a regulatory vacuum, which the industry has attempted to fill with its own solutions.

I am conflicted.  On the one hand I don't want Da'ish providing instructions to would be terrorists.  On the other hand, I don't want some bureaucrat deciding that my fair opinion is "hate speech".  And I especially don't trust the EU bureaucrats.  And on the other other hand I worry about companies making up rules out of fear of EU bureaucrats.  The solution, of course, is free speech.

Hat tip to Samizdata.

Regards  —  Cliff