Amnesty International accuses Google of failing to protect women and girls in South Korea

Amnesty International has accused Google of failing to address its flawed system for removing non-consensual sexually explicit content from its searches, specifically targeting women and girls in South Korea. Survivors have reported difficulties navigating Google’s removal request process, finding it incomplete and unresponsive. Amnesty International launched a petition a year ago, urging Google to fix the flaws in its reporting system. Despite making alterations and updates, survivors continue to face challenges, and the changes have not improved their situation.

The reporting forms are difficult to find and contain ambiguous categories for reporting content. Google’s lack of transparency in the reporting process and failure to address survivors’ trauma have contributed to the prolonged harm experienced during the reporting process. The article highlights the ‘Nth Room’ case in South Korea, where non-consensual sexually explicit content was shared and sold in secret chat rooms. While some operators have been convicted, content related to the case still appears in Google search results. The perpetrators often use existing content to coerce survivors into producing more abusive material.

Amnesty International emphasizes that Google’s failure to swiftly remove harmful content further exposes women and girls to harm and violates their human rights. Google is reminded of its responsibility to meet human rights obligations outlined in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Although Google has expressed its commitment to combating gender-based harassment and violence, Amnesty International insists that more action is needed to support survivors and remove harmful content from its platform.

Why does it matter?

Amnesty International’s report highlights the ongoing failure of Google to address the flaws in its system for removing non-consensual sexually explicit content from its searches. Survivors in South Korea continue to struggle with the inadequate removal request process, experiencing difficulties and a lack of support. Amnesty International also called on Google to simplify reporting procedures, prevent content redistribution, and prioritize the well-being of survivors by meeting its human rights responsibilities.