In a massive change of heart by YouTube, the streaming platform has recently announced that it will no longer remove content that contains false claims regarding the 2020 US Presidential elections, and all before it. This means that those who have been posting political propaganda about Trump winning in 2020, widespread fraud in the last election, glitches, and more will be welcome to YouTube.
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YouTube to Stop Removing Content on Election Propaganda
YouTube has announced a significant shift in its approach to election misinformation by no longer removing content that spreads conspiracy theories or misinformation about the 2020 election. This change is part of the platform's new Election Misinformation Policy and signifies a departure from its previous stance on combating false information surrounding elections.
Under the new policy, YouTube will now allow individuals to post a variety of content related to elections, including videos discussing widespread fraud, glitches, or errors in the 2020 election and previous elections. This change comes as the platform adopts a different strategy in preparation for the upcoming 2024 US elections.
This move represents a stark reversal from YouTube's previous position, which was enacted in December 2020. At that time, the platform pledged to remove all forms of misinformation, conspiracy theories, and fake news associated with elections.
Previous election propaganda claimed that Trump was the winner of the 2020 US Presidential Elections and that there were errors in the counting process in different states.
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YouTube's Election Misinformation Policy Renewed
YouTube has stated that removing such videos in the past has resulted in the "curtailing of political speech." The platform now believes that allowing a wide range of content will foster an open environment for discussion and provide users with different perspectives on the electoral process.
This new decision by YouTube will bring more content to the public that will let them decide what to believe in, without hindering political speech.
The streaming platform said that it will still remove other forms of misinformation online with the likes of false time, date, and places of elections, and other forms of misleading information, but not the said political propaganda.
US 2024 Presidential Elections
The upcoming 2024 US Presidential Elections are already wary of the many threats to its integrity, particularly with the emergence of AI which experts think might infiltrate the process.
The Center for Internet Security has already looked into launching tests for a new voting technology that would be used in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Still, there are massive roles for online platforms that may affect future elections, especially with YouTube's recent reversal.
As the 2024 US elections approach, YouTube's new Election Misinformation Policy will be put to the test, especially as it will foster more people voicing their political stance and beliefs which they broadcast online.
As platforms like YouTube continue to refine their policies, it remains crucial to find effective solutions that protect democratic processes, uphold freedom of speech, and maintain the integrity of information shared online.
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