A content moderator working for a service provider, Telus International, has faced consequences from his employer after speaking at the Bundestag. Cengiz Haksöz, who checks content for Facebook and Instagram, revealed the stressful working conditions and culture of fear experienced by content moderators at the Digital Committee hearing. As a result, Telus International suspended Haksöz indefinitely and prohibited him from entering the company premises. Haksöz is also the head of the election board for the company election scheduled for July. The Chair of the Digital Committee, Tabea Rößner, has expressed concern over the potential connection between Haksöz’s hearing and his suspension, emphasizing that it is essential for legislators to understand the functioning and working conditions of content moderators.
Verdi, the service union supporting Haksöz, has announced legal action against Telus International and called for the revocation of Haksöz’s suspension and his right to access the company. Verdi is also investigating whether Telus International is attempting to hinder or prevent the works council election, which is punishable by law. Content moderators, also known as the “garbage collectors” of the Internet, play a vital role in society, but they often lack recognition, legal protection, appropriate health measures, and fair payment. Julia Kloiber from the civil society organization Superrr Lab argues that major platform operators are still trying to intimidate content moderators and prevent them from asserting their rights.
Anna Kassautzki, a digital politician from the SPD, criticized Telus International and urged Facebook and other platforms to take responsibility for content moderation instead of outsourcing it to subcontractors. Telus International board member Marilyn Tyfting responded to the allegations by stating that Haksöz had violated working agreements with the company and that his recent statements did not accurately reflect the reality of their business. The company is currently conducting an internal investigation into the matter, and Haksöz remains barred from entering the company premises. This suspension is unrelated to the upcoming works council election.
