With the increasing reliance on digital platforms for social interaction and entertainment, several challenges have emerged, such as scroll addiction among young users and online harassment due to a lack of accountability. A global activist survey highlights Facebook as particularly concerning when it comes to cases of online abuse.
Regulatory authorities and activists worldwide are raising awareness about the negative impacts of social media, especially focusing on the harassment users face on platforms like Facebook. A survey by Global Witness, dedicated to monitoring violence against environmental defenders, revealed that around 90% of participants experienced some form of harassment related to their activism on Meta’s platforms.
Facebook, along with other social media apps like X, WhatsApp, and Instagram, ranks poorly in terms of online abuse. Activists frequently encounter threatening messages, including death threats and demeaning language, designed to silence them. Misinformation is often spread to undermine their voices. Global Witness and allied activists are urging Meta and other tech companies to implement strict measures to combat these issues.
The situation is alarming given how often digital abuse translates to real-world threats. According to the survey, over 70% of participants believed their online harassment led to real-life dangers. Conducted between November 2024 and March 2025, the survey of approximately 200 land environmental defenders revealed that more than 50% faced harassment on Facebook, about 36% on WhatsApp, and around 20% on Instagram. Instead of serving as communication tools, these platforms are being misused to intimidate and silence voices.
Global Witness is advocating for significant action from social media companies. They are pushing for regulatory measures, such as enhanced content moderation and algorithm reforms, to effectively tackle and reduce online abuse.
