Testimony Omits Mention Of Extremist Content, Other Misuses Of Platform

New York, NY – Counter Extremism Project (CEP) Executive Director David Ibsen issued the following statement in response to the failure of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg to address the problems associated with extremist content on Facebook’s platforms in his formal testimony prepared for the April 11 hearing before the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee:

“Mark Zuckerberg’s prepared testimony fundamentally ignores the issue of extremist and terrorist content on Facebook, and its proven connection to radicalization, recruiting, and violent acts. This omission is disappointing and completely unacceptable. Extremist videos and other propaganda continue to be pervasive and accessible online and more must be done by Facebook and other tech companies beyond expressing concern and pointing to artificial intelligence as the coming panacea. Facebook’s corporate culture led directly to the misuse of data of 87 million users and the proliferation of fake and manipulated media content. It also allows for the haphazard and opaque response to troubling and dangerous terrorist propaganda and hateful speech. Congress should use this opportunity to hold Facebook accountable and help ensure appropriate measures are being taken to protect Americans.”

In the days leading up to Mr. Zuckerberg’s widely anticipated testimony, additional controversies continue to ensnare Facebook. Most recently, Facebook came under fire for its role in allowing hate speech in Myanmar to remain on its platform, resulting in violence against that country’s ethnic minorities and other groups.