Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is facing a class action lawsuit initiated by 185 former Kenyan content moderators claiming severe mental health issues due to their exposure to graphic content. They allege unfair labor practices and are seeking Sh25.9 billion in damages.
Meta Platforms, Inc., the parent company of Facebook, is currently facing a substantial class action lawsuit in Kenya, seeking damages of Sh25.9 billion from 185 former content moderators. The plaintiffs allege that their work, which involved reviewing distressing content such as graphic violence and child exploitation, has resulted in significant mental health issues and exposed them to unfair labor practices. Reports from psychiatrist Dr. Ian Kanyanya indicate that many former moderators continue to exhibit symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD), even a year after leaving their positions.
The moderators, employed by Samasource Kenya EPZ Ltd under a contract with Meta, were subject to long working hours, often ranging from eight to ten hours per day, reviewing explicit material. Dr. Kanyanya noted the vulnerability of the moderators, many of whom were young and recruited from marginalized backgrounds, highlighting their unpreparedness for dealing with such traumatic content. The claimants assert that they endured conditions akin to forced labor, alleging modern slavery and seeking Sh20 million each for these grievances, alongside additional damages for mental distress and discrimination.
Moreover, migrant workers among the claimants raise concerns over human trafficking, asserting that they were brought to Kenya utilizing business visas rather than appropriate work permits, and were placed in substandard living conditions. Initially, Meta contested the jurisdiction of the Kenyan court regarding the lawsuit, claiming it lacked local standing. However, this objection was dismissed by the Court of Appeal, permitting the case to advance.
The former moderators maintain that their roles were crucial for safeguarding communities from harmful online content, yet they feel exploited and inadequately supported throughout their employment. Additionally, they contend that their dismissals last year, which violated a previous court order that halted such terminations, were unjustified. The lawsuit is set to be reviewed by Justice Nduma Nderi in February 2025.
This class action lawsuit exemplifies the increasing scrutiny over the treatment of content moderators, particularly in regions with vulnerable workforces. With the rise of social media, organizations like Meta have become responsible for maintaining a safe online environment. However, the psychological toll on moderators exposed to graphic and disturbing material has raised ethical concerns regarding their labor practices. As more cases emerge highlighting the mental health repercussions of such employment, the legal framework surrounding workers’ rights is also evolving, indicating a broader movement toward accountability in the tech industry.
In summary, the ongoing lawsuit against Meta reflects critical issues surrounding mental health, labor practices, and the treatment of content moderators in Kenya. The claims of psychological distress, exploitation, and inadequate support illustrate the darker side of moderating online content. As the case proceeds, it may set a significant legal precedent regarding the responsibilities of tech companies towards their employees and the standards of care they must provide, potentially influencing future policies in the industry.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
