This is very off topic for a Star Trek focused instance, but I thought some of the Quark’s regulars might be interested in the public interest issues raised in this situation.
For context, the Canadian federal Parliament passed legislation that would tax very large internet aggregator platforms that monetize news links without entering into payment arrangements with news sources. The law is not yet in effect, and the regulations make that work that haven’t even been put out for formal public consultation (a lengthy process). Meta and X have proactively blocked links to anything they believe are Canadian news sites. This includes access to the Canadian Parliamentary Access Channel (CPAC) and the national public broadcaster CBC and other private sources that are carrying required emergency broadcasts.
cross-posted from: https://startrek.website/post/967873
The NWT government and city of Yellowknife are describing in tweets, Instagram messages etc. how to search key evacuation information on CPAC and CBC. The broadcast carriers have a duty to carry emergency information, but Meta and X are blocking links.
While internet access is reportedly limited in Yellowknife, residents are finding this a barrier to getting current and accurate information. Even links to CBC radio are blocked.
On one hand I wouldn’t be against a law requiring big platforms to help disseminate information during an emergency. On the other when I read stories like this I think: “y’know on a nonprofit Federated model this wouldn’t even be an issue.”