Media Release: New advertising code of ethics unlikely to rein in repeat corporate offenders #mediarelease #advertising #aana #csr #ethics #adstandards
collectiveshout.org/new_ad_code_wo…
The Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA) this week released its updated Code of Ethics following a review. While we welcome some new elements in the Code, we have reservations about its overall effectiveness.
The updated Code – taking effect Feb 2021 - includes restrictions on undue focus on male or female anatomy, unless relevant to the product being advertised, use of sexualised imagery or graphic violence where children are likely to view it, & avoiding harmful gender stereotypes.
We welcome the AANA’s intention to address harmful sex stereotypes, overtly sexual images, violent and menacing content, and body image concerns.
We also welcome the addition of the requirement that advertisers are to avoid causing harm.
However, we would like to know how ‘strengthening the Practice Note’ would ‘lessen the risk’ of sexualised ads being seen by children, given habitual abusers of advertising codes - such as #HoneyBirdette – have shown they have no interest in compliance & breach with impunity.
Right now, just in time for school holidays, Honey Birdette has full sized, orgy-themed window displays, featuring semi naked women. Some ads feature skeletons and demons which could be scary to children.
In our submission to the #AANA review we advised that child/youth health & development experts be consulted in the formulation of the Code, given the unique vulnerabilities of children. We see no indication of any such consultation.
collectiveshout.org/submission_to_…
There is no indication that the Community Panel will include any such child/youth health and development experts amongst its members to inform its decision-making in future.
We can't see how repeat offenders & companies who ignore the Code & determinations of the former #AdStandards Community Panel will now be made to comply. Ultimately, we are still to see how the Code can be made effective.
Read entire media release here: collectiveshout.org/new_ad_code_wo…
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