The European Union Court of Justice ruled that Meta may be required to pay royalties to publishers when using local news content. The decision strengthens the practice of digital platforms compensating press organizations for the use of their content.
The Italian Communications Authority mandated that digital platforms and social networks must pay copyright fees or fair compensation when using content from local press organizations. This regulation also covers press content and journalistic products shared on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Meta appealed to the Lazio Regional Administrative Court to annul this decision. The court suspended the process and referred the matter to the European Union Court of Justice, asking about the compatibility of the right to remuneration and behavioral obligations with the Copyright Directive in the Digital Single Market.
Among the questions before the Court was whether imposing remuneration rights and behavioral obligations in addition to exclusive rights violates EU law. It also evaluated whether the obligation to provide data, supported by administrative sanctions, aligns with the principles of freedom of enterprise and proportionality.
The EU Court of Justice ruled that the system established by Italy is compatible with the legal order. The case was decided on May 12.
Following the ruling, it was noted that while this outcome does not directly affect Turkey, it could strengthen precedent discussions in negotiations with similar platforms. The assessment also suggested that this practice might increase the likelihood of acceptance in Turkey.
