#17: Mike Matthys

Join the conversation as we sit down with Mike Matthys, a Stanford alumnus and Silicon Valley expert, to tackle the ever-evolving challenge of protecting free speech in our digital world. Drawing on his telecom insights and experiences with global censorship, Mike helps us unpack the work of the Institute for a Better Internet and brings to light the alarming trends of government interference in media. Our discussion delves into the stark figures from a recent survey, revealing the public’s strong disapproval of such meddling and emphasizing that the battle for free speech transcends political lines, reminding us that it’s a vital right for everyone to uphold.

As we navigate the complex terrain of content moderation and social media censorship, we take a hard look at how these practices are shaping user engagement and trust in platforms. Comparing the contrasting strategies of the EU and US, we underline the significance of advocacy and education in finding a balanced approach to regulation. We also explore the role of significant political events, like Brexit and the 2016 US election, in eroding confidence in media and official narratives, highlighting the necessity for a nuanced approach to handling information online.

Wrapping up, we critically examine the potential and pitfalls of AI in the context of censorship and discuss the promise of the Online Media Regulatory Authority (OMRA) as a solution to preserve online freedom of speech. Matthys shares his insights on the importance of transparency, neutrality, and accountability in the age of information manipulation, and we ponder the partisan divide on censorship awareness. With Kelly and Niki Tshibaka, we encourage our listeners to participate in this crucial discourse and keep pushing for a future where diverse voices can flourish online without fear of unreasonable restraint.

You can learn more about the Institute for a Better Internet here: https://4betterinternet.com.