MUMBAI: In the Internet age, all media are global. However until recently there has been no definitive source explaining the risks of international libel law.

Bloomberg says that this need has been filled by Charles Glasser's International Libel and Privacy Handbook. This offers a side-by-side comparison of laws and customs relating to libel and privacy in major countries worldwide.

Glasser says, "Media law around the world is a crazy patchwork quilt, with each square reflecting a nation's cultural biases, political history, and economic structure. With headlines and stories flashed on desktops around the world at the speed of light. What is needed is a global approach requiring that reporters and editors review their practices and philosophy toward global newsgathering, and that they develop an understanding for the basic moral engine that drives each nation's media laws."

Bloomberg says that the International Libel and Privacy Handbook is aimed at anyone working in or with the media industry. Written in plain language and not "legalese," the book offers a roadmap for navigating the complex web of libel and privacy laws, nation-by-nation. In the global media marketplace, it is sure to be an invaluable tool-not just for lawyers, but for journalists, corporate communicators, webmasters and bloggers.

Glasser offers special chapters on book publishing, Internet publishing, copyright issues, and the enforcement of foreign judgments, as well as a breakdown by country of legal explanations that answer such questions as:

* What is the definition of libel in China?

* May reporters in India tape-record their telephone conversations without the consent of the other party?

* In Italy, is a right of privacy recognised?

* In Hong Kong, what's the law on disclosure of confidential sources?

* Do Internet publishers, including chat-room operators, have to meet special standards?