TikTok Expands State-Affiliated Media Labeling Policy

TikTok is committed to providing transparency and context to its community by expanding its state-affiliated media labeling policy globally. This policy aims to help viewers better understand the sources behind the content they consume on the platform.

Last year, TikTok initiated a pilot program in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus to label content from state-controlled media. Based on the success of the pilot, the policy is now being expanded globally.

The labeling process involves identifying accounts that are controlled or influenced by a government in their editorial output or decision-making process. This ensures that people have accurate and transparent context when engaging with content from media accounts that may present a government's viewpoint.

To develop the state-affiliated media labeling decisions, TikTok has consulted with over 60 media experts, political scientists, academics, representatives from international organizations, and civil society across various regions. An independently-validated methodology has been established in collaboration with a leading global media monitor.

The feedback received during the consultation emphasized the importance of considering diverse political, legal, and cultural contexts related to news media. It was also highlighted that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to state-affiliated media, and educating users about the different ways governments seek to influence news and reporting is crucial.

In evaluating editorial independence from states, TikTok considers an organization's mission statement, editorial practices and safeguards, leadership and editorial governance, and actual editorial decisions. Entities that heavily rely on state funding are also closely monitored.

Based on the evaluation, entities are categorized and a label is applied to their account profiles and content.

The state-controlled media label is now being expanded beyond the pilot phase and will be gradually implemented in over 40 markets across multiple regions. TikTok's goal is to eventually introduce this label in even more markets.

To ensure fairness, TikTok has developed an appeals process for entities that believe they have been incorrectly labeled as state-controlled media. Entities can submit additional information to demonstrate their editorial independence, and TikTok will evaluate the evidence and seek input from independent authoritative experts. If an entity does not meet the state-affiliated media criteria, the label will be removed.

TikTok remains committed to continuously exploring additional ways to provide viewers with contextual information on the platform.