The World Federation of Advertisers (WFA) has decided to suspend its lawsuit against GARM, the Global Alliance for Responsible Media, over concerns that the legal action could potentially harm the industry’s efforts to combat harmful content online. The lawsuit was initially filed in October 2020, with the WFA accusing GARM of failing to deliver on its promise to develop standards for brand safety and content moderation on digital platforms.
However, in a statement released today, the WFA announced that they have decided to pause the legal proceedings in order to focus on working collaboratively with GARM and other industry stakeholders to address the issue. The WFA acknowledged that while there are still significant challenges in the fight against harmful content online, they believe that a cooperative approach is the most effective way to make meaningful progress.
The decision to suspend the lawsuit comes after months of discussions between the WFA and GARM, during which both parties expressed a shared commitment to finding common ground on the issue of brand safety and content moderation. The WFA stated that they are optimistic about the potential for collaboration with GARM and are hopeful that together they can develop strong, industry-wide standards that will protect brands and consumers from harmful content online.
The WFA also emphasized the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue, noting that it requires a combination of technological solutions, policy changes, and industry initiatives. They reiterated their belief that all stakeholders, including brands, agencies, platforms, and regulators, have a role to play in ensuring a safer and more responsible digital environment.
In response to the WFA’s decision to suspend the lawsuit, GARM issued a statement expressing their appreciation for the WFA’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and collaborate on finding solutions to the challenges facing the industry. GARM reiterated their commitment to working with all stakeholders to develop effective standards for brand safety and content moderation, and expressed their confidence that together they can make significant progress in improving the online advertising ecosystem.
The decision to suspend the lawsuit represents a significant shift in the dynamic between the WFA and GARM, who have previously been at odds over the issue of brand safety and content moderation. The WFA’s willingness to set aside their legal action in favor of a collaborative approach reflects a growing recognition within the industry of the need for collective action to address the challenges posed by harmful content online.
Moving forward, the WFA and GARM have committed to continuing their dialogue and working together to develop industry-wide standards that will protect brands and consumers from harmful content online. Both parties are hopeful that by working in partnership, they can make a meaningful impact on the digital advertising ecosystem and create a safer and more responsible online environment for all stakeholders.
