Under the guidance of Huseyin Yayman, the head of the digital media commission, the Turkish Parliament is set to summon Google representatives for discussions regarding digital royalties pertaining to online content.

The impetus for these deliberations is notably influenced by Canada's recent accord with Google, wherein the tech giant pledged an annual payment of approximately$74 million in compliance with the country's Online News Act.

Yayman, a deputy representing the southern city of Hatay for the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), has delineated a comprehensive agenda with multiple stages. This encompasses revising laws governing intellectual and artistic works, a task actively undertaken by the Culture and Tourism Ministry and the parliament. Yayman contends that the absence of such legislation in Turkey results in news outlets producing content without proper remuneration.

Why does it matter?

This initiative is embedded within a larger discourse in Turkey concerning digital platforms, exemplified by a recent presentation given by TikTok's representative for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey before the parliament. The summoning of Google representatives by the Turkish Parliament is a significant step towards ensuring fair compensation for online content creators in Turkey, updating outdated laws, and aligning Turkey's digital copyright norms with international standards.