A Message To Canada (And The World) From Australia: Don’t Let Google Scare You

Exciting developments are underway in the tech world, especially concerning Big Tech accountability measures. Recently, Google made headlines by announcing its decision to remove news links for Canadian users due to the implementation of Canada’s Online News Act in June. This legislation mandates Google and Meta to compensate news organizations for the use of their content on the platforms, mirroring a similar scenario with Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code.

Canada now has a unique opportunity to enhance and build upon Australia’s legislation, setting a global standard for holding Big Tech accountable. Despite Google’s threat to block news links for Canadian users, it’s crucial to stand firm, knowing that such platforms cannot feasibly block news from all countries and states considering similar measures.

Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code is deemed successful by the government, resulting in over 30 commercial agreements valued at around $200 million with news organizations. While some might view it differently, especially those publishers who missed out on deals, the Code has set a precedent for other governments to follow suit. The US, UK, India, South Africa, and Brazil are already considering similar initiatives, with more countries likely to join the trend.

Importantly, the Code compelled digital platforms like Google to acknowledge the tangible value of the news content they harvest from outlets. This admission is significant, making Google recognize the true worth of the news content in quantifiable, monetary terms. The prevalent business model of harvesting data without compensating news organizations is now under increased scrutiny, especially with the growing concerns around data privacy and the rise of generative AI.

Generative AI, which collects substantial data, is raising questions about copyright and fair use practices. Google’s data collection practices have faced scrutiny, resulting in privacy breaches and fines. With the public demanding more data agency and privacy, the model of harvesting data without proper compensation is being reevaluated.

Publishers and governments are pushing back against Big Tech dominance. Gannett, the largest US newspaper chain, has sued Google over its advertising dominance. Antitrust suits against Google are ongoing in the US and EU, with global regulatory initiatives scrutinizing its market power. As AI advancements unfold, governments are urgently developing regulations to avoid repeating past mistakes with Web 2.0 companies like Google.

While Google may have once seemed invincible in its monopolistic position, the tide appears to be turning. The recent threats in response to Canada’s Online News Act no longer hold the same weight. As someone involved in Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code, I can attest that these accountability measures are working as intended. It’s a promising sign that we are making strides in curbing Big Tech’s dominance.

News Source : Tech Policy