Facebook changes policies. For the better or for the worse?

Facebook announced a new approach to the way the site will be governed. Now the site offers its users an unprecedented role in determining the future policies relating to the service. 

The first two proposals subject to these new procedures, The Facebook Principles, and Statement of Rights and Responsibilities, were already released. Users can review, comment and vote on these documents over the next coming weeks. An update to the Privacy Policy, which is already planned, has also been promised to go through similar process. However, Facebook decided to retain the power of making independent decisions about the timing and rollout of products, as long as they are consistent with the Principles and in compliance with the Statement of Rights and Responsibilities.

The Facebook Principles are built on the belief that company's efforts should be aimed at making the world more open and connected. Achieving 10 basic principles of the service should be constrained only by limitations of law, technology, and evolving social norms about sharing. 

The Statement of Rights and Responsibilities was drafted as a consequence of the issues raised by the officially established Facebook Bill of Rights and Responsibilities Group. Facebook Principles were also considered while developing the statement. It will be aimed at governing Facebook's relationship with users and others parties involved. After approval the Statement is expected to replace current Terms of Use, Developer Terms of Service, and Advertising Terms and Conditions of Facebook. The document consists of fewer than six pages, and emphasizes clarity and accessibility. It highlights users’ ownership of the content they share through Facebook services. It also notes that once the content is expired and users delete the content or terminate their accounts Facebook's permission to use that content expires. Moreover, the statement highlights that users must be given a notice, an opportunity to comment, and, in certain cases, approve authority through a vote for policy changes.