In 2019, French law mandated that platforms pay press agencies and publishers for the use of their content. However, this has sparked a controversy over neighboring rights. Recently, the French Competition Authority fined Google 250 million euros for failing to comply with agreements made in June 2022. According to the Authority, Google did not negotiate in good faith with press publishers regarding their compensation under neighboring rights.
The Authority relied on reports from Accuracy firm to launch an investigation in fall of 2023. The findings revealed that Google had not taken adequate measures to ensure negotiations did not have any adverse effects on other economic relations. Additionally, Google utilized content from publishers and press agencies without informing them or the Authority. In 2021, Google was fined 500 million euros for similar violations but later agreed to commitments in 2022.
Despite some organizations agreeing with Google, Microsoft and X have yet to negotiate. The Competition Authority continues to closely monitor Google’s compliance and has taken action against any violations. The ongoing dispute highlights the complexities of regulating the use of content in the digital age.
Google’s failure to comply with agreements made with press publishers has led to a standoff over neighboring rights. This has resulted in significant financial penalties for the tech giant, as evidenced by its recent fine of €57 million euros by France’s Competition Authority.
The authority found that Google had not engaged in good faith negotiations with publishers regarding their remuneration under neighboring rights. Additionally, they discovered that Google used content from publishers and press agencies without their consent or knowledge.
In addition to this latest fine, Google was also fined €57 million euros in 2019 for similar violations.
The dispute over neighboring rights continues despite some organizations agreeing with Google’s policies.
Microsoft and X have yet to negotiate with press publishers, leading to ongoing tension between tech giants and media outlets.
The Competition Authority remains vigilant in monitoring Google’s compliance and taking action against any violations that may arise.
As technology continues to advance at lightning speed, it is becoming increasingly difficult for regulators to keep up with changes in how we consume and share information online.
However, it is clear that companies like Google must be held accountable for their actions if they wish to maintain public trust and reputation.