Meta Officially Blocks News Screening From Canadians On Its Social Media

Meta blocks news broadcasts in Canada via its social media. (photo: dock. meta)

JAKARTA - In response to the Online News Law (UU) passed in June 2023, Meta officially decided to block news releases in Canada through its social media.

Canadians, starting August 1, 2023, will no longer be able to see news links and content posted by publishers and news broadcasters in the country, both on Facebook and Instagram.

"To comply with the Online News Act, we have started the process of discontinuing the availability of news in Canada. We identify news outlets based on the legislative and guide definition of the Online News Act," Meta said in its announcement, quoted Wednesday, August 2.

This new policy does not apply to publishers and news broadcasters outside Canada, they will continue to be able to post links and news content. However, that content cannot be seen by people in the country.

"There is no change in our services for people who access our technology outside Canada," Meta said.

Meta Forced To Implement This New Rule

Nearly a year ago, Meta expressed concern about the Online News Act which would force it to consider whether to continue allowing sharing news content on the platform.

"We have been transparent and have explained to the Canadian government that the law incorrectly describes the value received by news outlets when choosing to use our platform," Meta said.

According to Meta, the law is based on a false premise in which companies are accused of unfairly benefiting from news content shared on the platform.

"Member news outlets voluntarily share content on Facebook and Instagram to expand their audience and help their advantages. On the other hand, we know people who use our platform don't come to us for news," explains Meta.

"The only way that we can comply with this law fairly is to end the availability of news for people in Canada," he added.

For information, this rule only applies to broadcasting news on Meta's social media, while Canadians can still use Facebook and Instagram to connect with friends, family, and engage with their local community.