Facebook content moderators in Kenya call the work 'torture.' Their lawsuit may ripple worldwide

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Nearly 200 former employees in Kenya are suing Facebook and local contractor Sama over working conditions that could have implications for social media moderators around the world.

NAIROBI, Kenya — On the verge of tears, Nathan Nkunzimana recalled watching a video of a child being molested and another of a woman being killed.

The moderators from several African countries are seeking a $1.6 billion compensation fund after alleging poor working conditions, including insufficient mental health support and low pay. Earlier this year, they were laid off by Sama as it left the business of content moderation. They assert that the companies are ignoring a court order for their contracts to be extended until the case is resolved.

But as the exposure to alarming content reignited past traumas for some like him who had fled political or ethnic violence back home, the moderators found little support and a culture of secrecy. These days, he locks himself in his room to avoid his sons' questions about why he's no longer working and why they likely can no longer afford school fees. The salary for content moderators was $429 per month, with non-Kenyans getting a small expat allowance on top of that.

In addition, the mental health care provided might not be "the cream of the crop" and concerns have been raised about the confidentiality of therapy, said Roberts, an associate professor of information studies.

 

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