Meghan Markle’s return to social media: A call for online safety
Earlier this month, Meghan Markle made headlines with her return to Instagram, marking a significant moment after a nearly five-year hiatus from social media. This comeback was not merely a personal choice; it symbolized a broader commitment to fostering a healthier online environment. Filmed on a picturesque beach in Southern California, the video she shared conveyed a sense of optimism regarding the progress made in combating online abuse, a cause she and her husband, Prince Harry, have passionately championed.
Engagement with Meta for a better online ecosystem
In the lead-up to her return, Markle reportedly engaged in discussions with executives at Meta, the parent company of Instagram, to explore ways to enhance the online experience. This proactive approach underscores her dedication to addressing the pervasive issues of misinformation and hate speech that have plagued social media platforms. However, just as Markle re-entered the digital landscape, Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, announced controversial changes to the company’s policies, including the dismantling of its long-standing fact-checking program.
Criticism of Meta’s policy changes
In response to these developments, the Archewell Foundation, established by Meghan and Harry, issued a statement condemning the alterations to Meta’s fact-checking policies. The statement emphasized that these changes undermine free speech, regardless of political affiliations. It argued that allowing increased abuse and normalizing hate speech ultimately silences genuine expression rather than promoting it. This perspective reflects the couple’s ongoing commitment to advocating for online safety, particularly in light of their own experiences with social media’s darker side.
Advocacy for children’s safety online
Since stepping back from their royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Harry have focused on addressing the harms associated with social media. Their efforts include joining campaigns aimed at pressuring platforms like Facebook to revise their policies on hate speech. In August 2024, they launched the Archewell Parents’ Network, an initiative designed to support families affected by online harms, particularly those who have lost children due to these issues. Their advocacy highlights the urgent need for platforms to prioritize user safety, especially for vulnerable populations like children.
Markle’s recent activities, including her visit to a Girls, Inc. chapter in Greater Santa Barbara, further illustrate her commitment to empowering the next generation. By participating in the Social Media U program, funded by Archewell, she aims to help teenagers cultivate healthier relationships with technology. This initiative is a testament to her belief that social media can be a force for good when approached with the right mindset and policies.
As Meghan Markle re-establishes her presence on social media, her focus remains clear: advocating for a safer, more responsible online environment. Her journey reflects a growing awareness of the ethical responsibilities that come with digital engagement, urging both users and platforms to prioritize safety and integrity in the online space.
