G7: Adopted G7 Media Ministers' Communiqué including measures regarding digital platforms

On 19 June 2022, the Media Ministers of the G7 countries released a Communiqué announcing future policy cooperation, including measures regarding digital platforms. The ministers agreed to cooperate with regard to media freedom, transparency and freedom of expression and information. The Communiqué states that digital platforms have an increasingly important influence on media content, and can thus bring both innovation (e.g. enabling the exchange of opinions) and danger (e.g. hosting violent speech). The ministers commit to exchange on policies to level the playing field between platforms and news businesses (e.g. through bargaining) as well as to enhance platform transparency. In addition, the Communiqué encourages the platforms to follow the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights to create a fair and respectful digital environment.