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Meta’s Oversight Board ruled that the phrase “from the river to the sea” does not inherently violate Meta’s hate speech policies.

Let’s bring you up to speed: The phrase “from the river to the sea” has been used in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, originating as political rhetoric advocating for Palestinian control over the land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. Critics argue that it suggests the elimination of Israel and is associated with groups like Hamas, which have used it in violent contexts. Others view it as a call for Palestinian self-determination and equal rights. Following the attack on October 7th and Israel’s subsequent invasion of Gaza, Meta has faced increasing debate over whether the phrase violates its hate speech policies.

What the board is saying: The Oversight Board determined that the phrase “from the river to the sea” has various interpretations and doesn’t automatically violate Meta’s policies on hate speech, violence, or incitement. The board said, “While it can be understood by some as encouraging and legitimizing antisemitism and the violent elimination of Israel and its people, it is also often used as a political call for solidarity, equal rights and self-determination of the Palestinian people, and to end the war in Gaza.” They added, “Because the phrase does not have a single meaning, a blanket ban on content that includes the phrase, a default rule towards removal of such content, or even using it as a signal to trigger enforcement or review, would hinder protected political speech in unacceptable ways.”

What the board recommends: The review board called on Meta to improve access to its data for journalists and third-party researchers to improve the analysis of hate speech trends and boost transparency. It also recommended Meta refine its methods for monitoring and handling hate speech to balance safety with freedom of speech and expression.

What Meta is saying: In a statement, a Meta spokesman said, “We welcome the board’s review of our guidance on this matter. While all of our policies are developed with safety in mind, we know they come with global challenges and we regularly seek input from experts outside Meta, including the Oversight Board.”