UNESCO launches consultation on fair payment for news in the digital age

UNESCO Initiates Global Dialogue on Ensuring Equitable News Payments in Digital Era

A Call for Sustaining Journalism Amid Technological Shifts

UNESCO launches consultation on fair payment - UNESCO, the United Nations’ cultural organization, has initiated a worldwide consultation to shape its proposed guidance on fair remuneration for news content. This effort follows growing reliance on journalistic material by online platforms and artificial intelligence systems.

“Securing the long-term viability of news media is more critical than ever to preserve journalism’s role and uphold the reliability of information,” the organization stated.

Challenges Reshaping the Media Ecosystem

The consultation document identifies systemic shifts in the media landscape, such as reduced funding for public-focused reporting, the decline or shutdown of regional news outlets, and broader threats to journalistic independence.

It underscores that a handful of global digital platforms and AI entities now act as key intermediaries, influencing how news reaches audiences and altering access to advertising revenue. These changes have created new pressures on media sustainability.

Stakeholder Input and Regional Engagement

Feedback will be collected from governments, regulators, media organizations, civil society groups, and academic institutions until 30 July. Participants can contribute via an online survey, offering views on how to refine the guidance for protecting free speech and bolstering media resilience.

In advance of the deadline, three virtual regional forums will convene to foster discussion among stakeholders in the Asia-Pacific and Arab States, Africa and Europe, and the Americas and Caribbean regions.

Building on Existing Frameworks

The draft guidance expands upon UNESCO’s 2023 Digital Platform Governance Guidelines, which prioritize media diversity and financial stability. It also draws from the agency’s research on AI’s impact and human rights assessments, emphasizing equitable compensation as a core principle.

UNESCO aims to solidify its commitment to media autonomy through this initiative, aligning with broader strategies to support journalism’s future in a rapidly evolving digital world. The final document, along with a summary of responses, is expected to be released later this year.