YouTube has announced the launch of a pilot program that will allow certain creators, specifically those previously banned for spreading misinformation related to COVID-19 and elections, to establish new channels. This decision follows political pressure and is part of an effort to support a “subset of creators” whose channels were terminated due to policies that are no longer in effect. According to a letter addressed to Congressman Jim Jordan, the opportunity for reinstatement will apply to creators banned for “repeated violations of COVID-19 and elections integrity policies.”
In the same correspondence, YouTube emphasized its commitment to enabling diverse perspectives and fostering open debate on political topics within its platform. This initiative coincides with YouTube’s recent announcement of a $24.5 million settlement related to a lawsuit filed by former President Donald Trump regarding his account ban. Most of this settlement is earmarked for the construction of a new White House ballroom.
The new program will begin rolling out to eligible creators shortly. YouTube indicated that several factors would be considered when evaluating requests for new channels, including the severity of past policy violations and any potential ongoing harm caused to the YouTube community by the creator’s actions, both on and off the platform. Notably, the initiative excludes those banned for copyright infringement or breaches of YouTube’s Creator Responsibility policies, and individuals who voluntarily deleted their channels will not be eligible to request new ones at this time. Additionally, a waiting period of one year post-termination is required before reapplication is possible.
YouTube has acknowledged that many terminated creators deserve a second chance and aims to implement this program thoughtfully and progressively over the coming months.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/797848/youtube-banned-creators-second-chance-program-covid-election-misinformation-new-channel