Main image via FixThePhoto , Depositphotos
As the saying goes “nothing is real on the internet”, and it seems like Norway is challenging that in their new law for photoshopped pictures on social media!
In an effort to “reduce body pressure” among young people, Norway’s newly passed law will soon require influencers and advertisers to label their photos if it’s retouched.
Any photos that shows a retouched body shape, size, skin or even using a filter will need to be labelled, in their bid to battle unrealistic beauty standards. Violators can be fined or even imprisoned.
The decision came after studies from Norway’s Ministry of Children and Family found that low self-esteem among young people is pervasively contributed by “body pressure” or beauty standards.
“Body pressure is present in the workplace, in the public space, in the home, and in various media, etc,” the proposed amendments sent to the Norwegian parliament by the Ministry of Children and Family wrote.
“Body pressure is always there, often imperceptibly, and is difficult to combat. A requirement for retouched or otherwise manipulated advertising to be marked is one measure against body pressure.”
“The measure will hopefully make a useful and significant contribution to curbing the negative impact that such advertising has, especially on children and young people,” the ministry added.
A standardised label will need to be added to advertised photos by advertisers and influencers, who retouched images including enlarged lips, narrowed waists, exaggerated muscles and more.
Many influencers in Norway are welcoming the new regulation, including 26-year-old influencer Madeleine Pedersen who says, it’s "about time".
"There are so many people that are insecure about their body or face," she told Radio 1 Newsbeat. "I have struggled with body issues because of Instagram, back in the day.
"The worst part is that I don't even know if the other girls I looked up to did edit their photos or not. That's why we all need answers - we need this law."
Some even argued that the law should apply to all retouched photos, not just the advertised post by influencers who receive some kind of payment in exchange for the modified posts.
Many people on the internet also agree with the new law in Norway, with many saying it should be implemented as an international law.
Info via VICE , BBC
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