France takes proactive steps to reduce illicit posts on social media

France works to reduce pedophilia and terrorism posts on social media sites

Taking a step in the right direction, France just passed legislation that requires social media companies to delete any content on their sites that is related to pedophilia or terrorism. Failure to do so in one-day time-frame could result in fines of up to 4% of their global revenues. Social media companies such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and YouTube will also be required to remove content considered to be “manifestly illicit” with 24 hours.

Interestingly, Marine Le Pen, National Rally Party president, denounced the law as a, “serious violation of the freedom of expression.” It is a sad day indeed to think that “freedom of expression” should include the right to post such destructive content that can be life-changing for anyone affected directly or indirectly by these types of posts. Congrats France on taking this very necessary and positive action! It would not be surprising to see other countries adopt similar legislation in the near future.