TikTok Fires UK Moderators Amid Union Busting Claims

TikTok moderators in the UK have accused the social media company of "oppressive and intimidating" union busting, alleging unfair dismissal after hundreds were fired shortly before a planned union vote. These workers sought to establish a collective bargaining unit to address the severe personal costs associated with reviewing extreme and violent content.

Approximately 400 moderators in London were dismissed before Christmas, a process initiated just a week before the union vote was scheduled. TikTok, with a significant user base in Britain, strongly denies the legal claims lodged with an employment tribunal, calling them "baseless." The company attributes the sackings to a global restructuring and the increased use of AI for content moderation.

Supporters of the moderators contend that TikTok is prioritizing union busting over user safety and worker well-being. They argue that content moderation is a dangerous and underpaid job requiring more resources. TikTok maintains that technological advancements have significantly reduced moderators' exposure to graphic material.