In a powerful essay for Fast Company, Prince Harry has launched a scathing critique of social media platforms, accusing them of fueling a “crisis of hate,” a “crisis of health,” and a “crisis of truth.” The Duke of Sussex argues that while social media offers undeniable benefits, its cost is steep, as platforms constantly collect data on users’ every click and interaction.
“Many of us love and enjoy social media,” Harry acknowledges, but cautions that “the cost is high. Every time you click, they learn more about you.” He goes on to emphasize the urgent need for a fundamental shift: “In this ever-changing digital world, we … have to remodel the architecture of our online community in a way defined more by compassion than hate, by truth instead of misinformation.”
Prince Harry speaking at an event.
This call for action comes on the heels of the “Stop Hate for Profit” campaign, which saw hundreds of businesses, including major corporations, pausing their advertising on Facebook throughout July. The movement aimed to pressure the social media giant to address the proliferation of hate speech and misinformation on its platform. Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, have thrown their weight behind this movement and are urging other business leaders to follow suit.
Meghan herself has been subjected to intense online scrutiny and harassment. Speaking at the Girl Up Leadership Summit, she addressed the double-edged sword of social media, stating, “Your generation is often referred to as the digital natives, and you understand that our online world has the power to affirm and support as much as it does to harm.”
The couple’s outspoken stance against the harmful aspects of social media aligns with their ongoing battle against media intrusion. In a recent legal victory, Meghan successfully obtained an injunction preventing the publication of the names of five friends who were involved in a lawsuit against a British tabloid.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle walking together.
Harry’s essay marks a significant step in the couple’s post-royal life. No longer bound by the constraints of their former roles, they are leveraging their platform to champion causes they are passionate about. Harry stresses the urgency of the situation, stating that addressing the ills of social media “cannot wait for new laws or policies.”
He and Meghan are directly appealing to businesses, particularly those with advertising-driven models, to consider their role in shaping the online landscape: “We are calling on companies … to consider how they can help make change and start that process now.” This powerful message calls for collective action and responsible leadership to build a safer and more truthful online world.
