Spotify has announced new methods for tackling COVID-19 disinformation following push back

Dedicated content advisory will be now added to podcast episodes that mention and discuss coronavirus.

Spotify posted a statement to their website, saying that the service was formed with the intention of enabling “the work of creators around the world to be heard and enjoyed by listeners around the world”.

The statement addresses concerns raised by users regarding the Covid-19 information policies, adding they have now drawn lines between “what is and isn’t acceptable”.

This comes as musician Neil Young withdrew his music from Spotify last week as a protest against COVID-19 misinformation on the platform.

In particular, he did specify that Joe Rogan was the source of misinformation on Spotify’s platform.

“I am doing this because Spotify is spreading fake information about vaccines, potentially causing death to those who believe the disinformation being spread by them,” Young says.

Singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell has since joined Young by removing her music from Spotify to support him and the global scientific and medical communities regarding this issue.

Previously, Rogan has utilised the streaming platform to cast doubts on the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines.

For example, in April last year, he said he would discourage young people from getting vaccinated.

“If you’re a healthy person, and you’re exercising all the time, and you’re young, and you’re eating well, I don’t think you need to worry about (COVID-19),” Rogan says.

Even though anyone, no matter how old or healthy, can still be highly impacted or killed by COVID-19.

Journalist Ernest Owens says Spotify hosts have a responsibility to uphold certain standards, especially when it comes to life and death.

Written by Savannah Pocock