News Media Alliance condemns Google’s move in France

Google has announced that it will stop displaying previews of news articles under the newly adopted European Union Copyright Directive in France, unless a publisher waives its right to compensation.

Article 15 of the EU Copyright Directive, also known as the “Publishers’ Right,” empowers news publishers to protect their content online — including “snippets” and summaries — by asking for compensation from online platforms for use of their content, according to the News Media Alliance. France is the first EU member state to pass legislation implementing Article 15.

Virginia-based News Media Alliance released a statement condemning Google’s announcement.

“We stand strong with our global partners — including French Culture Minister Franck Riester — in asserting that this position is contrary to both the law and the interests of news consumers,” the statement said.

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