Global Survey Reveals Facebook as Most Toxic Platform for Activists, 62% Experience Harassment Amid Weak Moderation and Algorithmic Abuse Concerns

As society increasingly relies on digital platforms for communication and entertainment, several concerning issues arise. Prominent among these are digital addiction, particularly in younger demographics, and the alarming prevalence of online harassment. A recent global activist survey indicates that Facebook ranks as the most problematic platform regarding online abuse.

Meta Faces Scrutiny: 90% of Environmental Defenders Experience Online Harassment

In light of these challenges, regulatory bodies and advocacy groups worldwide are intensifying efforts to address the troubling aspects of social media. Meta has come under particularly harsh criticism due to rising concerns over online harassment, especially towards activists. A survey conducted by Global Witness, a non-profit organization monitoring violence against environmental advocates, disclosed that approximately 90% of respondents reported experiencing harassment linked to their activism on Meta’s platforms.

Among various social media applications, Facebook is consistently rated the highest for online abuse, followed closely by X, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Activists often receive alarming messages, including threats of physical violence. These communications frequently employ derogatory language intended to silence dissent and undermine the credibility of activists through disinformation. As a response, Global Witness has aligned with multiple advocacy groups to petition Meta and similar companies for stringent actions to mitigate these issues.

The severity of the situation is underscored by the overlap between online and offline threats. The Global Witness survey found that over 70% of participants believed their online harassment translated into real-world threats. Conducted from November 2024 to March 2025 with around 200 environmental defenders, the survey’s results were troubling. Findings showed that over half of the respondents faced harassment on Facebook, about 36% on WhatsApp, and approximately 20% on Instagram. These platforms, originally designed for communication, are being exploited to intimidate individuals and suppress vocal dissent.

In advocating for change, Global Witness is urging social media companies to implement more robust measures, including enhanced content moderation strategies and regular assessments of their effectiveness. The activists have drawn attention to the detrimental role algorithms play in exacerbating these issues, highlighting an urgent need for reforms aimed at curbing systemic abuse.

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