Social media giant Meta has once again come under the radar of Indian authorities over alleged child sexual abuse material (CSAM) prevalent on Meta-owned platforms.

Now, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member Priyank Kanoon has urged the women and child developement (WCD) ministry to look into the financial relationship between the social media giant and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

Citing advocacy group Legal Rights Observatory, Kanoongo reportedly said that UNICEF is trying to offer its help to Indian authorities in the ongoing government probe into the child sexual abuse material (CSAM), sold as ads, on Meta platforms. 

Speaking with news agency PTI, Kanoongo flagged that Meta has given ‘millions of dollars” to UNICEF and continues to fund the organisation. He argued that this financial relationship could create a conflict of interest, particularly because UNICEF is engaged in child-protection work while Meta faces allegations involving exploitative content on its platforms.

In a letter written to WCD secretary Anil Malik, he called for a probe into the financial ties between Meta and UNICEF. Kanoongo also raised concerns that UNICEF could end up serving Meta’s interests rather than supporting child protection. He also urged the government to ensure that Meta is not allowed to use UNICEF as a “shield to evade accountability”.

“Therefore, there is a concern that this organisation, which is supposed to work on the issue of child sexual exploitation material while receiving funding from Meta, might end up serving Meta’s interests. The activist group has expressed apprehension that this organisation could potentially work in favour of Meta’s interests,” Kanoongo reportedly said.

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