- Indonesia decreed tech giants must pay local publishers for content.
- This follows similar moves by Australia and Canada.
- The “Publisher Rights” law aims to create a sustainable news ecosystem.
Indonesia joins Australia and Canada
Indonesia has stepped into the global debate about fair compensation for news publishers, following similar moves by Australia and Canada.
A new presidential decree, set to go into effect in August 2024, will require digital platforms like Google and Meta to compensate local media outlets for their content.
Dubbed the “Publisher Rights” decree, the legislation aims to create a sustainable news ecosystem through several crucial points.
Platform-publisher partnerships
Digital platforms must now actively partner with publishers, exploring options like paid licensing, profit sharing, data exchange, or other mutually agreed-upon arrangements.
Additionally, algorithms governing news distribution within these platforms must promote “quality journalism” and “democratic principles.”
This move comes after years of declining advertising revenue for publishers, largely attributed to competition from tech giants who utilize their content without significant compensation.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo emphasized the crucial role of quality journalism in the decree’s initiation, stating the desire for journalism that “educates for Indonesia’s development.”
Interesting to see how this evolves
In a statement to CNBC Indonesia, Google highlighted the importance of “diverse news sources” and supporting all publishers.
The decree signifies a potential shift in the power dynamics between platforms and news outlets. Similar actions in Australia and Canada have already yielded agreements between tech giants and local media, setting a precedent for Indonesia.
This development will be closely watched by other countries grappling with the same challenges. As concerns over misinformation and the economic viability of journalism rise, Indonesia’s Publisher Rights decree may pave the way for further regulations aimed at achieving a more equitable news landscape.
Read the original story in its entirety: https://www.techinasia.com/indonesia-require-google-meta-compensate-news-publishers