US criticises Australia's proposed algorithm opt-out laws as 'censorship'
Under the draft laws, tech firms face fines if they do not give users the option to switch off algorithms.
The United States has expressed serious concerns over Australia's proposed algorithm opt-out laws, arguing that they constitute censorship of protected speech. Australia's draft digital duty of care laws would require tech firms to give users the option to turn off algorithms, with penalties for non-compliance. The US embassy in Canberra raised concerns that allowing the government to enforce vague definitions of "harm" could lead to viewpoint-based censorship.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese maintains the legislation is not about giving the government control, but rather returning control to individuals. The US also warned that the proposed laws could reduce the reach of independent journalists or content that touches on sensitive or controversial topics. They further stated that mandated platform design features could affect users globally, not just in Australia.
The US urged Australia to address industry concerns about potential biases in government officials' views on independent or minority viewpoint speech. The remarks come during Albanese's visit to the US for the UN General Assembly to discuss Australia's tech policies. Albanese responded to the criticism, emphasizing that the laws are about giving people control over what they receive on their devices, not giving the government control.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Technology's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
