The earnings of writers have notably been reducing in recent years. There is, according to multiple newspapers including the BBC, a reduction in the income of writers on their writings — which are a fundamental tool for communication and documentation throughout human history, play a crucial role in preserving knowledge, sharing ideas and shaping societies and are instrumental in fostering cultural exchange, promoting critical thinking and empowering individuals to express their thoughts and emotions — in many developed and other countries including the United States, Spain, Brazil, India and Burundi. Though writers’ earnings differ based on the sorts of publications and/or mediums, the income of many writers has significantly decreased in different countries, leading to a concern in the world.
It is notable that there are many factors that contribute to the reduction of writers’ earnings. The rise of digital platforms and online content, the presence of advanced technology and the decline in traditional publishing houses and bookstores limited the income of writers in developed, developing and less developed countries. But they are affecting more in developed countries. Additionally, the oversaturation of writers resulted in increased competition and lower rates in developed countries. But limited access to publishing platforms and resources needed for high-demand content hinders writers from generating sufficient revenue, along with the lack of copyright protection and enforcement for which writers often struggle to retain ownership of their work and receive fair compensation for their creative efforts, in many developing and less developed countries. Among others, shifting towards cost-cutting measures, outsourcing content creation or relying on unpaid contributions, of many publications and media outlets diminished the opportunities for earnings in many countries.
Different countries have definitely taken steps to ensure that writers are fairly compensated for their writing. But the steps are mostly focused on enacting copyright laws that grant writers rights over their writings in different countries. The emphasis has been given less on addressing the reduction of earnings of writers by supporting them and promoting their contributions. Some countries including the United States and Canada, for instance, have implemented various financial assistance programs to writers, such as grants and funding programs, to enable them to focus on their writing without worrying about financial constraints. Some governments also offer financial assistance to authors through tax breaks. But these steps are limited in scope in different countries and, more importantly, there is a lack of such efforts in many countries.
Writings need to be promoted and effective government and other efforts are crucial to addressing the reduction of the earnings of writers. Grants and funding programs for writing — which allow writers to continue producing quality content and contribute to society — are definitely imperative in many countries. But the scope of financial assistance programs needs to be increased. Providing mentorship programs, enforcing copyright laws and connecting writers with established publishers and literary agents may help increase the opportunities for increased earnings in many countries. Among others, providing awards to writers at the local, national and global levels for their socially impactful writings may help increase the earnings of many writers across the world.
Amir M Sayem
Chief Editor
Dhaka Opinion Magazine
