YouTube has revamped its policy for monétization so that creators can now earn profits from videos about sensitive issues such as abortion, self-harm, suicide, domestic or sexual abuse, as long as these are dramatized or presented in a non-graphic manner. Note how this policy was revamped after several years where profiting was strictly inhibited when it came to videos about contentious topics even when these were meant for educational or awareness-raising purposes.The change was announced in a video on Creator Insider and incorporated into the guidelines on the YouTube Help Center page. The goal of this new rule is to give creators more opportunities to earn from valuable conversations and do this in a manner that makes advertisers feel comfortable as well. With this new rule, creators are no longer required to demonetize videos that deal with sensitive topics if they are not explicit.
YouTube’s ad revenue guidelines for controversial topics and sensitive content
YouTube defines controversial issues as topics linked to trauma or abuse. This includes self-harm, suicide, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, sexual harassment, eating disorders, and abortion. The new rules allow creators to earn full ad revenue if the content is non-graphic and presented as a discussion, dramatization, or commentary.The policy also distinguishes between “focal” and “fleeting” content. A brief mention of a sensitive topic does not count, but a sustained discussion or dramatized segment can qualify. This gives creators clarity on how to structure their videos for monetization eligibility.The creators are advised to submit appeals if they were affected by the previous restrictions. There have been no affirmations by YouTube if the previous videos will be reviewed automatically. The process can help the creators regain revenue, especially if they were dependent on ad revenue as income.Although this is a major shift in policy, it is important to point out that YouTube has guidelines that regulate content with actual illustrations or too much explicit information of the said act. Title, thumbnail pictures, and the manner by which the content is displayed also affect the video in getting full advertising revenue.With this update, new opportunities arise for content creators who tackle important yet sensitive topics responsibly. YouTube, through this new understanding of what constitutes content for revenue generation, strikes a balance between content creators, advertisers, as well as audience members while promoting healthy content discourse about difficult topics.Also Read: Adin Ross faces backlash from Doechii controversy and may quit Kick temporarily
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