As a long-time Twitch user and advocate for open and inclusive conversations, I find myself both encouraged and perplexed by the recent updates to their Hateful Conduct policy. On one hand, it’s heartening to see a platform taking active steps to combat hate speech and protect its diverse community. The clarification that using ‘Zionist’ in a hateful or harassing manner is against the rules is a positive move towards creating a safer space for all users.


On November 15, 2024, Twitch modified its Hateful Conduct policy by implementing particular alterations concerning the use of the term ‘Zionist’ within its platform.

Twitch’s blog post makes it clear that using the term ‘world in isolation’ isn’t forbidden, but action will be taken if it’s utilized in a way that spreads hatred or harassment.

Effective immediately, it’s not acceptable to employ the term ‘Zionist’ as a means to criticize or disparage someone based on their origin or faith, according to this statement.

We don’t consider using a term in reference to a political movement, whether positively or negatively, as a breach of our Hateful Conduct policy. Our goal is not to restrict discussions about or criticisms towards an institution or ideology, but rather to avoid disguised hate speech targeted at specific individuals and communities.

We have updated our enforcement guidelines, read more here:

— Twitch Support (@TwitchSupport) November 15, 2024

This recent modification comes in response to allegations of anti-Semitic behavior on the platform, as it emerged that users residing in Israel and Palestine were unable to establish Twitch accounts.

The platform expressed regret over a “mistake” they unintentionally failed to correct, which was not re-enabling email verification in both regions. They consider this oversight as something that is not acceptable to them.

In his statement, Twitch CEO Dan Clancy reiterated the company’s strong stance against any form of hate or harassment.

In clear terms, the individual stated that Twitch has zero tolerance for any form of racism, prejudice, or bullying, whether it’s antisemitism, Islamophobia, or anything else. He emphasized that Twitch is all about creating a welcoming environment for everyone, now and in the future.

Daily, individuals unite on our platform to form groups centered on common passions, and to genuinely express themselves. To make this interaction secure and authentic, we put in significant effort to create a safe environment for everyone involved.

It’s important to emphasize that Twitch unequivocally opposes any kind of hate or harassment. For further information regarding our dedication to safety and inclusivity, please check out this link: [Twitch’s Safety and Belonging Commitment]

— Daniel Clancy (@djclancy999) November 1, 2024

The reactions to Twitch’s recent Hateful Conduct policy update have predominantly been unfavorable, with certain users advocating for the dismissal of Clancy.

This new development follows a series of well-known broadcasters alleging that their content has been stripped of monetization on this platform due to using tags related to their ethnicity and home nation. This has led to even more criticism towards the website.

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2024-11-15 22:20