UK to Regulate Netflix and Other Streamers Like Broadcasters

• Streaming services must ensure news is reported accurately and impartially, and protect audiences against harmful or offensive material
• The regulations will apply to platforms with more than 500,000 UK users, bringing them under Ofcom's broadcasting code
• Ofcom will have investigative and enforcement powers to take action against services that breach the new standards

Summary: UK to Regulate Netflix and Other Streamers Like Broadcasters

Key Development:

Britain announced on Tuesday, February 24th, that major streaming platforms including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ will be required to comply with the same content and accessibility regulations as traditional broadcasters like the BBC.

Regulatory Details:

• The new rules will apply to streaming services with more than 500,000 UK users
• Platforms must adhere to regulator Ofcom's broadcasting code
• Requirements include accurate and impartial news reporting, protection against harmful or offensive content, and provision of accessibility features like subtitles
• Ofcom will gain investigation and enforcement powers to address code violations

Market Impact:

This regulatory expansion represents a significant shift in the UK streaming landscape, placing approximately two-thirds of UK households—who use these services—under enhanced content protections. The move levels the playing field between traditional broadcasters and digital streaming platforms, potentially increasing compliance costs for streaming giants operating in the British market.

Rationale:

UK authorities stated the regulations aim to protect audiences from harmful content while ensuring accessibility services are universally available across all major video platforms.

Industry Context:

The announcement comes as streaming services continue to dominate media consumption in Britain, with the government seeking to extend traditional broadcasting standards to the digital era. This regulatory framework could serve as a model for other jurisdictions considering similar oversight of streaming platforms.

The new standards will require major operational adjustments from affected streaming companies to ensure content moderation and accessibility compliance across their UK offerings.