Economist Podcasts Have I not news for you: Facebook’s Australian battle
Feb 19, 2021
Tom Wainwright, Media editor at The Economist, shares insights on Facebook's decision to block news links in Australia, igniting a fierce debate over digital media regulation. Nick Pelham, the Middle East correspondent, sheds light on the haunting issue of honor killings in the Arab world, discussing cultural norms and legal shortcomings. The conversation also touches on the struggle for activism in a deeply patriarchal society, alongside a tribute to jazz fusion legend Chick Corea, showcasing the intersection of music and social change.
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Facebook's Australian News Block
- Facebook blocked Australian news and other vital services due to a new media code.
- This sparked outrage, especially during the pandemic, as it hindered access to critical information.
Facebook's Argument
- Facebook argues that news publishers benefit from Facebook's links, not vice-versa.
- They claim they generated over 5 billion referrals to Australian news sites in 2020, worth around $400 million AUD.
Google's Dealings with News Corp
- Google, unlike Facebook, negotiated deals with News Corp and other Australian news organizations.
- They chose to pay for news content rather than block it, a different approach to the same regulatory threat.