Twitch is changing how it enforces community guidelines. In a recent update, Twitch introduced a new enforcement strategy focused on being more flexible and educational for users. Key changes include strikes that expire, increased transparency, and educational courses that can reduce penalties.
Depreciating Strikes for Minor Offenses
Twitch will now allow strikes for “low-severity” offenses to expire over time. Previously, strikes remained indefinitely, which Twitch’s VP of Safety Operations, Rob Lewington, found unfair to long-time users. This new system ensures fairness by distinguishing minor violations from serious ones. However, strikes for severe offenses like child safety violations or hateful conduct will remain permanent.
The exact list of “low-severity” offenses is still being finalized, but accidental nudity was mentioned as an example. More details are expected to follow soon.
Enhanced Transparency for Users
Starting next year, Twitch will provide more context when users violate community guidelines. This includes specific chat messages or clips that led to the enforcement action. This update aims to help users better understand their mistakes and improve the appeals process.
Educational Courses for Violations
Twitch is also introducing educational courses for users who break rules. These courses, developed with expert input, cover topics like hateful conduct, sexual content, and gambling. In some cases, completing a course can reduce suspension length. Twitch’s Director of Safety Risk and Response, Kristen Murdock, explained that the goal is to allow users to learn and improve their behavior.
A Safer, More Supportive Twitch
Twitch’s new strategy shows its dedication to keeping communities safe while offering users a chance to grow from their experiences. With 105 million monthly users and 1.3 trillion minutes of content viewed, these changes ensure Twitch remains a fair and supportive platform for everyone.
Twitch’s new guidelines will roll out in phases with detailed updates to follow.
