Spotify is a Swedish media entertainment company.
Controversies
“Hate Content”
In May 2018, Spotify announced it would partner with various left-wing groups to combat “hate content” in its music streaming service. According to the firm’s policy, monitored “hate content” includes “that expressly and principally promotes, advocates, or incites hatred or violence against a group or individual based on characteristics” such as race, religion, or sexual orientation.1
On May 10, the company released a blog post on its website identifying the groups operating in partnership with Spotify to remove this content, all of which are left-wing advocacy organizations: the Southern Poverty Law Center, Anti-Defamation League, GLAAD, Color of Change, Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ), Muslim Advocates, and the European Union project International Network Against Cyber Hate.2
References
- “Policies – FAQ – Spotify for Artists.” Concerts – FAQ – Spotify for Artists. Accessed May 22, 2018. https://artists.spotify.com/faq/policies#hate-content-and-hateful-conduct.
- “Spotify Announces New Hate Content and Hateful Conduct Public Policy.” Spotify -. May 10, 2018. Accessed May 22, 2018. https://newsroom.spotify.com/2018-05-10/spotify-announces-new-hate-content-and-hateful-conduct-public-policy/.