The rise of digital platforms like Google, X (formerly Twitter), and Meta (formerly Facebook) has revolutionized how we consume news, but it has also created a glaring economic imbalance. These tech giants generate billions in advertising revenue by hosting and sharing content created by news organizations, often without adequately compensating the original creators. Taxing large digital platforms that fail to share revenue with news publishers is an essential policy to restore fairness and support the future of journalism.

This approach addresses the inequity of the current system, where major platforms profit from the hard work of journalists without contributing to the sustainability of their industry. Traditional news outlets have seen their advertising revenue plummet, with much of it flowing into the coffers of tech companies instead. By requiring these platforms to share their profits, governments can ensure that news creators are compensated for the value they provide, helping to sustain high-quality journalism in an era of financial challenges.

Taxation could also play a critical role in combating misinformation. Digital platforms have frequently been criticized for enabling the spread of false information while undermining the reach of credible news sources. Redirecting tax revenue to support professional journalism would help ensure that quality reporting continues to play a vital role in informing the public and holding power to account. The importance of this goal has been demonstrated by global precedents. Countries like Australia and Canada have already implemented legislation to compel platforms to negotiate revenue-sharing agreements with news publishers, proving that such measures can work.

Recent developments have highlighted the potential for progress in this area. In a landmark move, Google has agreed to pay $100 million to a Canadian NGO to fund direct payments to journalists. This initiative represents a significant step toward addressing the economic imbalance in the news industry and demonstrates how collaboration between tech giants and governments can yield meaningful solutions. However, such efforts must be part of a broader, sustained commitment to supporting journalism worldwide.

Opposition from the tech giants is inevitable, as seen in Canada, where Meta and Google responded to the Online News Act by blocking access to news content. Such resistance underscores the need for governments to remain firm in their commitment to addressing this economic imbalance. While challenges remain, including defining who qualifies as a legitimate news creator and ensuring compliance, these hurdles are not insurmountable. A clear regulatory framework and effective oversight can prevent misuse of funds and ensure they are directed toward credible journalism.

Concerns about economic consequences, such as increased costs for advertisers or users, are valid but manageable. These platforms already operate with unprecedented profitability, and requiring them to pay their fair share does not threaten their sustainability. Instead, it acknowledges the value of the ecosystem they rely upon to thrive.

Ultimately, taxing large digital platforms is not just about economics; it is about fairness and accountability. By ensuring that news creators are compensated for their work, governments can create a more balanced digital economy while safeguarding the future of independent journalism. Supporting this policy is not only a practical step—it is a moral imperative.

The influence of Donald Trump and Elon Musk as owners of major digital platforms—Truth Social and X (formerly Twitter), respectively—poses a significant threat to journalism and the dissemination of credible information. Both individuals have used their platforms to amplify personal agendas, often undermining journalistic integrity by promoting misinformation and attacking media outlets that challenge their narratives. Musk’s approach to content moderation on X, including reinstating previously banned accounts and dissolving key trust and safety teams, has fueled the spread of falsehoods, while Trump’s Truth Social operates as a self-serving echo chamber.

This concentration of power in the hands of individuals who prioritize ideological control over transparency and accountability creates a hostile environment for independent journalism, erodes public trust in reliable reporting, and distorts the democratic discourse that journalism is meant to uphold. As governments and organizations work toward leveling the playing field through policies like revenue-sharing agreements and taxation, it is essential to confront the broader challenge posed by platform owners who prioritize personal interests over journalistic integrity. Only by addressing these issues in tandem can we safeguard the future of credible news and democratic accountability.