Google AdSense Cuts Off Monetization For Content Accusing Ukraine Of Genocide

Google AdSense, which manages the program through which websites can monetize with Google ads, is cutting off monetization for any content that promotes “claims that imply victims are responsible for their own tragedy or similar instances of victim blaming, such as claims that Ukraine is committing genocide or deliberately attacking its own citizens.” Google is enacting this censorious policy despite the massive evidence that Ukraine is actually shelling civilians in disputed separatist areas and carrying out other human rights travesties. Reporter Patrick Lancaster has been on the front lines reporting on the violence that civilians believe is coming from the government of Ukraine and its allies.

Google AdSense sent out an “Important Notice: Update regarding Ukraine” to publishers on its platform. The Google AdSense team states: “Dear Publisher, Due to the war in Ukraine, we will pause monetization of content that exploits, dismisses, or condones the war. Please note, we have already been enforcing on claims related to the war in Ukraine when they violated existing policies (for instance, the Dangerous or Derogatory content policy prohibits monetizing content that incites violence or denies tragic events). This update is meant to clarify, and in some cases expand, our publisher guidance as it relates to this conflict. This pause includes, but is not limited to, claims that imply victims are responsible for their own tragedy or similar instances of victim blaming, such as claims that Ukraine is committing genocide or deliberately attacking its own citizens.”