Former Facebook moderators in Kenya have filed a class action lawsuit against Meta, seeking Sh25.9 billion in compensation for mental health issues due to exposure to graphic content. The moderators claim unfair labor practices including forced labor and discrimination, emphasizing the vital yet exploitative nature of their roles. The case underscores significant concerns regarding employee welfare in the tech industry, set to be heard in February 2025.
A class action lawsuit has been filed in Kenya against Meta, the parent company of Facebook, claiming Sh25.9 billion in compensation for 185 former content moderators. The plaintiffs allege severe mental health issues and unfair labor practices arising from their roles, which required them to review graphic and disturbing content. Medical evaluations reveal that many of the moderators continue to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) even a year after leaving their positions.
The moderators, contracted through Samasource Kenya EPZ Ltd, assert their workdays lasted between eight to ten hours, exposing them to troubling materials including acts of terrorism, child abuse, and graphic violence. According to psychiatrist Dr. Ian Kanyanya, who assessed many of the petitioners, it is concerning that they exhibit ongoing emotional distress despite their separation from the position a year prior.
Beyond mental health concerns, the claimants argue they encountered forced labor and conditions akin to modern slavery, demanding Sh20 million each for these grievances. Furthermore, they seek Sh50 million for emotional suffering and Sh10 million for claims of discrimination. Migrant workers among the group highlight allegations of human trafficking, claiming they were misled into the country on business visas rather than appropriate work permits.
Previously, Meta contested the jurisdiction of the Kenyan courts, asserting that their operations were not based in the country. Nevertheless, this argument was rejected by the Court of Appeal, permitting the progress of the lawsuit. The plaintiffs maintain that their work is essential for protecting online communities and contend they were exploited throughout their employment. Furthermore, their dismissals last year are described as unlawful, despite an order from the court that barred such terminations.
The case is set to be heard by Justice Nduma Nderi on February 26, 2025, marking a significant moment for labor rights and mental health awareness in the tech industry.
The rise of social media platforms has underscored the critical role of content moderation in maintaining safe online environments. However, lesser attention has been devoted to the mental health implications for those employed in these demanding roles, particularly in regions such as Kenya. The petitioners in this case illustrate the challenges faced by content moderators who, due to the graphic and sensitive nature of their work, may experience severe psychological harm. As they seek accountability from a major international corporation, the case emphasizes concerns regarding labor practices and mental health support within the tech industry.
In summary, the class action lawsuit against Meta in Kenya raises pivotal issues regarding the mental health of content moderators and the ethical responsibilities of social media platforms. The allegations of forced labor, discrimination, and inadequate support illustrate the dire need for changes in how tech companies engage and protect their employees. As the case approaches its hearing date, it has the potential to influence labor rights policy in the digital landscape significantly.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
