Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, is cutting 5% of its workforce in a move aimed at streamlining operations and raising performance standards. The decision was revealed in an internal memo circulated on Tuesday and first reported by Bloomberg.

The memo highlights Meta’s shift toward “more extensive performance-based cuts” as part of its ongoing efforts to improve efficiency. According to the memo, roles eliminated during this cycle will be backfilled in 2025.

“We typically manage out people who aren’t meeting expectations over the course of a year, but now we’re going to do more extensive performance-based cuts during this cycle,” the memo stated. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized the importance of maintaining top talent during what he described as “an intense year” for the company.

Meta’s workforce currently stands at approximately 72,000 employees, according to its latest quarterly report. This reduction follows a series of significant layoffs in recent years:

• In November 2022, Meta cut 11,000 jobs, amounting to 13% of its workforce.
• In 2023, Zuckerberg declared a “year of efficiency,” leading to an additional 10,000 job cuts.
• In October 2024, Meta laid off an undisclosed number of employees across WhatsApp, Instagram, and Threads.

The latest round of layoffs comes as Meta continues to focus on developing cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, augmented reality glasses, and innovations in social media.

In addition to workforce reductions, Meta has made other notable changes recently. Earlier this month, the company ended its independent fact-checking program in favor of a Community Notes initiative written by users. Last week, Meta announced the discontinuation of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.

Employees affected by the latest layoffs will be notified starting February 10, with provisions for severance packages consistent with previous cuts.

Credit: Business Insider