Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, announced on July 2 that it had lifted the ban on using the Arabic word “shahid” on its platforms, as long as it does not violate other community rules. Previously, posts containing this word were automatically removed from Meta social networks due to concerns that it may be associated with dangerous or extremist organizations. However, the company now acknowledges that the word has multiple meanings, and not all of them connote violence.
The decision to allow the use of “shahid” was made following a recommendation from the Supervisory Board, which reviewed the rules surrounding the word. Meta stated that the change was implemented to better align with the different contexts and meanings of the term. While the word does carry implications of violence in some cases, it also holds other, less harmful connotations.
Moving forward, Meta users will be able to use the term “shahid” in their posts, as long as it is not used in a way that violates community standards. This shift in policy is part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to balance free expression on its platforms while also maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all users.