Facebook will no longer require everyone to use their real name – here’s why

San Francisco Gay Pride Parade marchers protest Facebook not allowing transgender people from choosing their own name.

After years of protests, Facebook has announced plans to get rid of its ‘real names’ policy – which required users to use their real name on site.

The policy has been criticised by groups such as trans people and drag artists – and Facebook is now testing a ‘softer’ approach.

Last year, Facebook started a purge on people who use stage names or other titles instead of their real names – which angered American drag queens after prominent performers such as Sister Roma were targeted.

The new rules still officially require people to use ‘authentic names’ on the site – but allow wriggle room.

Facebook will now allow people to ‘provide more information about their circumstances’ and ‘give additional details or context on their unique situation’.

Facebook’s ‘name’ policy.

‘On Facebook, we require people to use the name their friends and family know them by,’ said Justin Osofsky, Facebook’s Vice President of Global Operations said: ‘When people use the names they are known by, their actions and words carry more weight because they are more accountable for what they say.

‘Today, we will begin to test new tools that address two key goals.

‘First, we want to reduce the number of people who are asked to verify their name on Facebook when they are already using the name people know them by.

‘Second, we want to make it easier for people to confirm their name if necessary. These tools have been built based on many conversations with community leaders and safety organizations around the world.’

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