Minister Urges Fair Compensation for Content Creators by Social Media Platforms
Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized on Thursday that social media platforms must provide fair compensation to the creators whose content they utilize to generate substantial profits. Speaking at the Storyboard 18 Digital News Publishers Association Conclave in New Delhi, Vaishnaw called for a more equitable distribution of revenue, stressing that this applies to a diverse range of content producers.
Broad Call for Revenue Sharing Across All Creator Types
Vaishnaw articulated that social media companies should share revenue fairly with individuals who create content, including journalists, traditional media outlets, influencers, professors, researchers, and creators from remote areas. He highlighted that these platforms have earned billions by leveraging user-generated content, yet often fail to adequately reward those responsible for it. The minister's remarks come amid a growing global debate over the refusal of major social media giants to compensate creators, despite relying on their work for financial gain.
Accountability and Publisher-Like Responsibilities
During the conclave, discussions focused on the conduct of social media platforms, with Vaishnaw asserting that they can no longer operate as neutral intermediaries. He argued that these companies now function similarly to publishers and must be held accountable for the content they host and amplify. This shift in perspective is driven by the internet's evolution into a powerful media ecosystem, which Vaishnaw believes necessitates a redistribution of responsibility. He stated that platforms must take ownership of what they publish, mirroring the obligations of traditional media outlets.
Threats from Deepfakes and Disinformation
Vaishnaw also addressed the dangers posed by deepfakes, disinformation, and synthetic media, warning that these elements are eroding public trust. He pointed out that the rapid spread of fabricated images and videos, often amplified by algorithms, threatens the foundational trust in societal institutions. The minister emphasized that synthetic content should not be created without explicit consent, underscoring the broader societal harm beyond individual impacts. His comments reflect concerns over how digital platforms manage and mitigate such risks while profiting from user engagement.
Global Context and Implications
The minister's advocacy for fair compensation aligns with ongoing international discussions about the ethics and economics of digital content. As social media platforms continue to dominate the media landscape, his call for accountability and revenue sharing highlights the need for regulatory frameworks that protect creators' rights. This development could influence future policies aimed at ensuring a more balanced and just digital economy, where content creators receive their due share for contributions that drive platform success.
