YouTube has announced a new initiative called the ‘Second Chance’ program, offering select previously banned creators the opportunity to rejoin the platform and build new channels. The move reflects a shift in moderation policies and comes amid increasing political scrutiny.
In a blog post released on Thursday, YouTube said, “Starting today, some previously terminated creators will have the opportunity to request a new YouTube channel.” The platform clarified that this new option does not apply to all banned users and will exclude creators whose channels were removed for copyright infringement or violations of Creator Responsibility policies.
These specific policies prohibit behaviours such as intending to cause harm, engaging in abuse or violence, demonstrating cruelty, or participating in deceptive conduct with real-world consequences. Users who deleted their YouTube or Google accounts will also not be eligible. Additionally, only those who have been banned for at least one year may apply under this program.
Eligible users will see an option to “request a new channel” when logging into YouTube Studio. If approved, creators will be allowed to start fresh and rebuild their audiences. YouTube emphasised, “This is a fresh start on YouTube – just like many other platforms, you can build back your community through your new channel.”
The program comes as part of a broader reconsideration of past moderation practices. During the COVID-19 pandemic and following the 2020 US election, YouTube had banned content related to vaccine misinformation and election integrity, leading to multiple high-profile terminations, including that of former President Donald Trump.
In a letter to a US congressional committee, YouTube confirmed that the Second Chance option will extend to some creators whose channels were removed due to violations of now-defunct COVID-19 and election misinformation policies. The confirmation followed a subpoena issued by Rep. Jim Jordan seeking details on the platform’s moderation decisions.
“YouTube continues to enable a diversity of perspectives and believes creators should be able to openly debate political ideas on the platform,” the company stated.
YouTube noted it would evaluate each request carefully, factoring in the severity of past violations and whether the creator poses any ongoing risk to the platform or its community, especially in cases involving child safety.
The platform also reminded users that termination appeals remain available, and if an appeal is denied, creators can still apply for a new channel under the Second Chance program after one year.
As the rollout begins over the next few months, YouTube says it is committed to learning from the process and reviewing each case with caution.
Highlighting its economic impact, the platform said it has paid out over $100 billion to creators, artists, and media companies through the YouTube Partner Program over the last four years.
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