What is Bill C-18 and what does it mean for you?

Summary

The Canadian government recently enacted Bill C-18, known as the Online News Act, requiring big tech companies like Google and Meta to negotiate compensation with Canadian news organizations for access to their content. With these companies holding 80% of Canada's online advertising market, the bill aims to combat the decline of local journalism, which has seen over 450 news outlets close in the past 15 years. However, both Google and Meta have begun blocking news content on their platforms, threatening public access to vital information and potentially undermining democracy, as an uninformed public could make poor decisions in elections.

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Q & A

What is Bill C-18, and what is its primary objective?

Bill C-18, known as the Online News Act, aims to ensure that big tech companies like Google and Meta compensate Canadian news organizations for their content, thereby protecting and preserving Canadian journalism.

What are the implications of Bill C-18 for Canadian news organizations?

The bill mandates that dominant digital platforms negotiate compensation with Canadian news organizations, which is intended to help stabilize the financial situation of many struggling local news outlets.

How much of Canada’s online advertising market do Google and Meta control?

Google and Meta together control 80% of Canada’s online advertising market, significantly affecting the revenue of Canadian news media.

What has been the response of Google and Meta to the passage of Bill C-18?

Both Google and Meta have stated they will begin blocking news content on their platforms in response to the bill, limiting access to news for many Canadians.

How did Australia’s experience with similar legislation differ from Canada’s situation?

In Australia, the threat of legislation led to negotiations between tech companies and news organizations, avoiding the need for direct taxation. In Canada, however, companies have reacted by blocking news instead.

What are the potential risks of an uninformed public due to restricted news access?

An uninformed or misinformed public could lead to poor decision-making and increased susceptibility to misinformation, potentially undermining democratic processes, as seen in other countries.

What historical context is provided regarding the decline of local news outlets in Canada?

Over the past 15 years, more than 450 local news organizations and newspapers have gone out of business in Canada due to the economic power and influence of big tech companies.

What example does Professor Daniel Chai use to illustrate the dangers of a lack of news access?

Professor Chai cites an incident in Australia where a segment of the population did not receive critical news about wildfires due to news blocking, which posed a risk to their safety.

What broader impact could Canada’s actions have on the global stage?

Chai suggests that the outcome of Canada's approach to regulating big tech could have implications beyond its borders, potentially influencing how other countries deal with similar issues.

What can Canadians do to stay informed despite changes in news access on social media?

Canadians are encouraged to bookmark news websites and consider downloading news apps to ensure they remain informed about current events.