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Wikipedia Challenges UK's Online Safety Act Over Privacy Concerns

Wikipedia Challenges UK's Online Safety Act Over Privacy Concerns
Above: Logo of Wikipedia is seen in Ankara, Turkey on November 30, 2019.  Image credit: Ali Balikci/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

The OSA's requirements are essential safeguards designed to protect users from anonymous abuse and harmful content. The verification measures would enhance accountability and help law enforcement tackle criminal behavior online, while the blocking features would give users more control over their online interactions. These protections are crucial for creating a safer digital environment for all U.K. users.

Government-critical narrative

Forcing Wikipedia to implement user verification would fundamentally undermine its collaborative model that has successfully defended information integrity for decades. The requirements would expose volunteer editors to potential harassment, legal threats, and persecution in authoritarian countries, increasing the risk of vandalism and disinformation within our digital landscape.

Metaculus Prediction


Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO

More neutral establishment stance articles



© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0

© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.18.0