Meta Platforms Asserts Exemption from Indonesian Law

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, states its interpretation that the new Indonesian law does not mandate payment to news publishers for voluntarily posting content on its platforms.

Indonesia’s recent law, signed by the president, sets a six-month timeline for its enforcement, requiring digital platforms to compensate media outlets for content provided to them.

Meta’s Position After Consultations:

Meta’s director of public policy for Southeast Asia, Rafael Frankel, asserts that after consultations with the government, Meta will not be obligated to pay for news content publishers choose to post on its platforms.

While the law outlines the requirement for partnerships between digital platforms and news publishers, specifics regarding payment methods such as paid licenses, revenue sharing, or data sharing remain unclear.

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Global Concerns Over Platform-Publisher Dynamics:

Introducing such laws reflects global concerns about the perceived power imbalance between digital platforms and news publishers, prompting regulatory actions to address these issues.

Australian Precedent with News Media Bargaining Code:

Australia’s implementation of the News Media Bargaining Code in 2021 set a precedent, compelling digital platforms like Meta and Google to negotiate deals compensating media outlets for content shared on their platforms.

Meta and Google have responded to regulatory measures like Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code by entering agreements with media outlets, acknowledging the need to compensate for content that drives engagement and advertising revenue.