Friend,

Social media companies only care about their business models. They enable the spread of hate online because it’s profitable. This puts all of us at risk, but especially marginalized communities, vulnerable kids, and our democracies. This doesn’t have to be our reality.

Imagine an internet where user safety and well-being are priorities, transparency is non-negotiable, and social media companies are accountable and responsible to users and democratic bodies.

Imagine an internet where kids are shielded from online harms, marginalized groups are protected from harassment, and users aren’t bombarded with disinformation.

It’s time for policymakers to step up and hold these social media giants accountable.

This better and safer internet IS possible. Policymakers must be willing to implement the necessary reforms.

CCDH provides this guidance with our STAR Framework which equips policymakers with a blueprint to combat online harms and fortify democracy.

What does STAR stand for?

• Safety by Design – to prompt companies to design their products with user health and well-being in mind from the start.

• Transparency – to ensure companies disclose information about algorithms, product design, platform decisions, and advertising.

• Accountability & Responsibility – to force social media companies to be responsive to users and democratic institutions.

So, what can you do?

Tell your close ones how vital it is to regulate social media giants. It’s time to hold these companies accountable. You can do so by sharing this petition on your social media.

Online harms are rising. If we don’t act now, things will just get worse. Current legislation like Section 230 in the United States is already allowing platforms to avoid accountability and depriving victims of online harms of real justice.

As the digital landscape continues to grow and develop, it’s urgent that policymakers implement the STAR framework to counter online harms and achieve a safe internet for all.

Best wishes,

The CCDH Team