Our philosophy
Open discussion
People should have room to exchange ideas, question institutions, and challenge one another.
Necessary intervention
When action is necessary, choose the least restrictive effective response.
Our principles
Start with open discussion
People should be able to exchange ideas, question institutions, and challenge one another.
Protect the ability to participate
Threats, targeted harassment, and exposure of personal information can drive people out of a conversation.
Intervene when it is necessary
Our guidelines call for intervention only when it is absolutely necessary to safeguard users, protect Republic, or meet legal obligations.
Choose the least restrictive effective response
A response should do enough to address the violation while preserving civil but free discussion.
Our principles in practice
Start with open discussion
People should be able to exchange ideas, question institutions, and challenge one another. Disagreement belongs in a public conversation. The aim is to give people room to speak and room to respond.
Protect the ability to participate
Threats, targeted harassment, and exposure of personal information can drive people out of a conversation. Boundaries against harmful conduct help preserve the space in which discussion can happen. Freedom to speak comes with responsibility for how we treat others.
Intervene when it is necessary
Our guidelines call for intervention only when it is absolutely necessary to safeguard users, protect Republic, or meet legal obligations. Decisions should address the conduct and its context, with a clear reason tied to the rules.
Choose the least restrictive effective response
A response should do enough to address the violation while preserving civil but free discussion. Severity, evidence, risk of harm, and relevant history matter. Serious harm may require immediate action; repeated violations can call for a stronger response.
Apply the same responsibilities to everyone
The guidelines apply across Republic, including to official accounts and staff. A title, affiliation, or verification badge does not excuse harmful conduct. Honest representation helps people decide whom to trust and how to weigh a claim.
Leave room to reconsider
Enforcement decisions can be challenged through an appeal. A review considers both the finding and the penalty. When a violation is overturned, its effect on account standing and the penalties resulting from it should be corrected.
Read the governing Community Guidelines, enforcement details, and appeals process.
