Summary
Streaming platformTwitchhas announced a significant update to its AutoMod tool, aiming to bolster efforts against sexual harassment on the platform. This enhancement givesTwitchstreamers better moderation capabilities, helping to create a safer and more inclusive environment for their communities.
Sexual harassment continues to be a major challenge across online platforms, and Twitch, being the largest live-streaming service globally, is no exception. The platform faces the dual challenge of maintaining safety while managing the diverse behaviors of its extensive user base. As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience and safety, Twitch has periodically introduced new tools and updated policies. For instance, in 2020,Twitch revised its policy on attire and nudityto provide clearer guidelines for broadcasting standards. In 2021, the platform also updated its community guidelines to better address issues related to hateful conduct and harassment.
On July 23, Twitch unveiled new measures to address sexual harassment on its platform by introducing a “sexual harassment” category to AutoMod, their content moderation system.AutoMod uses machine learningand natural language processing to filter potentially harmful messages before they reach viewers. Twitch’s blog explained that to enhance the effectiveness of their sexual harassment policy, they have added clearer definitions and examples of prohibited behaviors. The updated policy now broadly defines sexual harassment as non-physical behaviors that make users feel uncomfortable or unsafe. It covers unwanted comments about appearance, sexual advances, objectification, and derogatory remarks about perceived sexual behaviors, regardless of gender.
Public Reactions to Twitch’s New Measures Against Sexual Harassment
Additionally, the policy strictly prohibits the sharing of “non-consensual intimate images or videos,” with potential reporting to law enforcement for such violations. Reactions to Twitch’s new policy have been varied. Some users praised the move, with one highlighting Twitch’s strong moderation tools and another expressing gratitude. In contrast, some criticized the timing of the policy change, suggesting it was prompted by recent scrutiny over Twitch’s handling of inappropriate conductinvolving the high-profile streamer Dr Disrespect.
While it remains to be seen how effective this new feature will be in combating sexual harassment, Twitch’s efforts are noteworthy.Twitch has also recently revised its Suspension Evasion Policy, permitting streamers to engage with content from banned users without facing consequences. These changes reflect Twitch’s commitment to maintaining its position in a competitive streaming industry, especially with the emergence of new platforms like Kick, which has gained attention by signing several prominent Twitch content creators.
