Mark Zuckerberg apologises to families targeted by social media abuse during child safety Senate hearing

Mark Zuckerberg came under fire from Senator Josh Hawley during a Senate hearing Wednesday

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg apologised to the families of children who have suffered abuse on social media platforms during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Wednesday.

“I’m sorry for everything you’ve all gone through,” Mr Zuckerberg said, turning to audience members holding up pictures of their loved ones. “Nobody should have to go through what your families have suffered. This is why we have invested so much and are going to continue industry-leading efforts to make sure that no one has to go through the types of things your families have suffered.”

The Meta CEO’s apology came after an intense line of questioning from Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri. Mr Hawley repeatedly asked Mr Zuckerberg if he planned to or had already compensated those abused on social media and their families.

“There are families of victims here today,” Mr Hawley said. “Have you apologised to the victims? Would you like to do so now? They’re here, you’re on national television. Would you like now to apologise to the victims who have been harmed ... Would you like to apologise for what you’ve done to these good people?”

“You’ve done nothing to help them,” Mr Hawley continued after the CEO’s apology. “You’ve done nothing to compensate them; you’ve done nothing to put it right. You could do so here today, and you should.”