Case Decisions and Policy Advisory Opinions
The Oversight Board reviews Meta’s content decisions to see if the company acted in line with its own policies, values and human rights commitments. The Board can choose to overturn or uphold Meta’s decision.
Case Decisions
All three types result in binding decisions that Meta must implement.
Standard
In-depth review of Meta’s decision to remove or allow a post, which includes recommendations.
Summary
Analysis of Meta’s original decision on a post when the company later changes its mind, after the Board selects the case for review.
Expedited
Rapid review of Meta’s decision on a post in exceptional situations with urgent real-world consequences.
Summary
Overturned
2024-036-FB-UA
Mistreatment by Ecuadorian Forces
A user appealed Meta’s decision to remove a Facebook video from Ecuador showing people being tied up, stepped on and beaten with a baton by individuals dressed in what appears to be military uniforms.
Summary
Multiple Case Decision
2024-034-IG-UA, 2024-035-FB-UA
Reports on the War in Gaza
In these two summary decisions, the Board reviewed two posts reporting on the war in Gaza.
Summary
Overturned
2024-033-FB-UA
Threat of Violence Against the Rohingya People
A user appealed Meta’s decision to leave up a comment under a Facebook post claiming the Rohingya people cause disturbances and are “tricksters.” The comment also called for the implementation of control measures against them.
POLICY ADVISORY OPINIONS
Meta can also ask the Board for guidance on specific issues through policy advisory opinions. These are integrated into the company’s policy development process.
Published
PAO-2023-01
Referring to Designated Dangerous Individuals as “Shaheed”
This policy advisory opinion analyzes Meta's approach to moderating the word “shaheed,” raising important questions about the impact of the Dangerous Organizations and Individuals policy on freedom of expression.
Published
PAO-2022-01
Removal of COVID-19 misinformation
This policy advisory opinion examines whether Meta should continue to remove certain categories of COVID-19 misinformation, or whether a less restrictive approach would better align with its values and human rights responsibilities.
Published
PAO-2021-02
Meta’s cross-check program
This policy advisory opinion analyzes Meta’s cross-check program, raising important questions around how Meta treats its most powerful users.