Bangkok: Sutont expressed concern that the NBTC (National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission) board meeting would be stalled, impacting the Thai media roadmap. He is preparing to propose three approaches: studying existing laws, self-regulation, and negotiating revenue sharing with platforms, in order to ensure professional stability for media professionals.
According to Thai News Agency, Senator Suton Klaakarnchai, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Broadcasting, Television, and Telecommunications, stated in an interview that the Senate Subcommittee had invited Professor Dr. Pirongrong Ramsut, a member of the NBTC, to provide information for consideration in studying the improvement of media ethics, including ways to help media professionals maintain professional security. Mr. Sutont highlighted the significant impact of technology on the media profession. While the NBTC previously regulated broadcasting and television businesses, the rise of online platforms, many based abroad, has begun to influence the media landscape without needing NBTC licenses.
Mr. Sutont explained that the subcommittee is exploring several strategies to help media professionals secure their jobs and elevate their profession's quality. The uncertainty surrounding the NBTC's board meeting issues complicates matters for those in the television sector, especially concerning license renewals. The subcommittee believes that the media industry's future shouldn't be confined to traditional mediums like television or radio but should also incorporate online platforms.
Self-regulation is one sector under consideration. The NBTC mandates that operators and media outlets form groups and register with the commission. However, participation has been limited, with some media entities opting out, citing no need for ethical standard adherence or group affiliation. This presents a challenge for self-regulation.
Another potential solution involves legislative regulation of the media profession, akin to laws governing professions like law or medicine. Such legislation could create a regulatory framework ensuring professional stability. If implemented, media professionals might find relief from job security concerns amidst technological advancements.
The subcommittee is also considering negotiating revenue-sharing agreements with platform owners, similar to Australia's model. However, concerns arise that such a system might disadvantage small businesses and individual media outlets in the long term. Hence, the subcommittee is carefully evaluating which approach suits the Thai context best.
Currently, the NBTC's inability to hold meetings has stalled progress on multiple issues. Mr. Suton emphasized the need for movement on the Roadmap for broadcasting and online platforms to align with industry changes. He submitted a motion to enable the NBTC to advance its work, assuring it was not an interference but a push for progress.
Professor Dr. Pirongrong Ramsoot noted that adopting a system like Australia's News Media Bargaining Code would require new legislation, falling outside the NBTC's jurisdiction. Addressing structural issues involves empowering domestic media to negotiate with major platforms, necessitating legislative support. She described Australia's system as one enabling negotiations between dominant media and large tech platforms, with state intervention through arbitration if needed.
The matter requires legislative consideration and legal mechanism design. The NBTC's inability to convene relates to its regulatory activities and roadmap, while the News Media Bargaining Code's implementation is a separate legislative issue.