Facebook move on Myanmar raises thorny political questions

A cellphone user looks at a Facebook page at a shop in Latha street, Yangon, Myanmar August 8, 2018. To match Special Report MYANMAR-FACEBOOK/HATE REUTERS/Ann Wang

WASHINGTON: Facebook’s ban of Myanmar’s military leaders marks a new step for the leading social network against state “actors” – and raises thorny questions on how the company deals with repressive regimes using the platform. 

The move against Myanmar’s army chief and other top military brass on Aug 27 – which came on the heels of an explosive UN investigation – was the first time Facebook has barred members of the military or state actors, the company confirmed.