TikTok is add labels to state-affiliated media in more markets after a first pilot program announced last March.
The company first announced the labels in response to the war in Ukraine and said it would “speed up” the rollout of the program with the pilot in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus. Several government-controlled Russian outlets such as RT, RIA Novosti and TASS have so far been labeled under the policy.
Now, TikTok will expand the labels to 40 markets starting immediately, with more to come. The criteria for the label take into account issues such as editorial independence, reporting, journalistic conduct and funding. The company did not specify which countries the labels would be rolled out to.
TikTok says it is also adding a way for outlets to appeal the label if they believe the designation is incorrect. TikTok says outlets can provide proof of editorial independence, which will then be reviewed by outside experts.
