The ADC has welcomed the announcement that the Federal government has pulled all its advertising from YouTube to ensure that its messages will not be associated with ISIS propaganda and other inappropriate material. This move follows the action taken by companies, including Holden, Toyota, Kia and governments such as the UK government.
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“We know that YouTube and other cyber companies are being manipulated and exploited by terrorist organisations to spread their dangerous ideology, recruit new members and incite acts of violence. In fact, too often, YouTube has placed videos posted by radical movements that glorify attacks and instruct users how to prepare future assaults next to ads by reputable international brands. In the wake of the London atrocity and other similar horrific incidents around the world, companies need to work hard to deactivate accounts and delete videos that promote terrorism and celebrate hate speech. YouTube must be more responsive to concerns flagged by governments and civil rights organisations such as the ADC who have raised the alarm about the vital need to fight the tsunami of online extremism. Companies need to show leadership and be proactive when it comes to addressing the proliferation of objectionable content and deal with this problem through a series of comprehensive measures. At a time when there is a rising tide of intolerance and violence based on prejudice and xenophobia, we need to not only speak against this scourge, but act against it.”
The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission, founded in 1979, is Australia’s leading organization fighting racism through educational programs that combat bigotry, prejudice and all forms of hatred.
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on 9272 5677.