Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have issued their first statement since returning to the UK. Interestingly, it has nothing to do with their move back to Britain. In a new update, Meta has reportedly agreed to pay up to $17.1 billion as a settlement amid claims that its platforms are a threat to children. For those unversed, the Sussexes have always advocated for a safe experience for children on social media platforms.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle aren’t satisfied with Meta’s $17 billion settlement
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have expressed their disappointment with Meta’s $17.1 billion settlement in a new statement. The statement read: “The historic trial against Meta over claims that its products endanger children has resulted in a settlement in which they will pay up to $17.1 billion. The settlement requires Meta to pay financial penalties for violating federal child privacy and states’ consumer protection laws.”
Continuing further, the Sussexes criticized Meta for taking an easy cop-out instead of taking accountability. They alleged that the company will “make the equivalent of the $17 billion payout back in profit in the next 30 days” (via Express.co.UK).
Going further, Harry and Meghan’s representatives praised Meta for attempting to bring some crucial changes, such as restricting notifications for minors. They hope this “quickly sparks change from other tech leaders across the industry.”
The Sussexes said these changes clearly indicate that social media companies are aware that they are up against forces relentlessly demanding change. This includes parents and advocates “who will not back down until we see change” in how young people interact with online spaces.
“It is a positive step for everyone advocating for safer online spaces and at the same time – far from the end of the journey to a better online world,” they concluded.
However, Harry and Meghan argued that this was still not enough. The pair said that the statement “fails to apologize or mention the billions it will pay out” because of other claims included in the settlement.
