I have received reports that some Instagram users in Jerusalem are facing censorship, presumably by Instagram itself, which is owned by Facebook. Palestinians have reported that recently, when they write Instagram messages about the wave of evictions of Palestinian families in East Jerusalem, their messages are recorded as having been sent – but do not reach their followers on Instagram. This is a worrying development, without explanation so far.
One way to register concern is to Report a Problem through your Instagram account.
Below is a suggested form of words, if you decide to do so.
It has come to my attention that Instagram is actively censoring news about the eviction of Palestinians from their homes in Jerusalem. Several Instagram users have noticed that their factual Instagram messages on this subject are recorded as being sent, but do not reach their followers.
Please explain why Instagram is preventing free speech and communication of facts in this way, and stop doing it at once.
Please note, to make a complaint to Instagram in this way, you need to have an Instagram account and be logged into to it.
How to make a complaint on your phone or tablet:
- Tap on your profile picture in the bottom right to go to your profile.
- Tap in the top right, then tap Settings.
- Tap Help, then tap Report a Problem.
- Tap Report a Problem again.
- Type out your complaint, and tap Submit.
With all good wishes,
Vincent
Sir Vincent Fean
Chair of trustees, Balfour Project