The global film and TV producers’ call for regulatory measures and protection of independent sectors against market failure and loss of intellectual property has gained momentum. Producers’ trade organizations from around the world are urging national governments to take action against streaming platforms.
The Need for Government Intervention
In a joint statement titled “Global Screen Producers’ Statement on Streaming Platform Regulation and Intellectual Property Protections,” more than 20 groups, including Australia’s Screen Producers Association and Germany’s Produzentenverband, emphasize their commitment to sustaining the industry and preserving cultural sovereignty.
Two key principles stand out among the nine proposed by the organizations. First, they call for all platforms deriving financial gains from the local market to contribute proportionally to the creation of local content for local audiences. Second, they advocate for independent screen businesses to retain control over their intellectual property and financially participate in the success generated by their work. They propose that the government should specify investment frameworks where independent screen businesses have control over the intellectual property.
Addressing Market Failure and Imbalance
The organizations also emphasize the importance of local stories and the companies behind them. They urge the government to address market failure and rectify any imbalances in commercial bargaining power between independent producers and streaming platforms. The rise of multinational streaming giants has threatened local culture, local-language production, and independent production companies in many countries.
Impact of Streaming Platforms
The rise of streaming video services has disrupted traditional linear TV, compelling entertainment corporations to shift their focus towards direct-to-consumer services. While these companies experienced significant subscriber growth during the pandemic, they are now reducing content commissioning to achieve profitability. However, the dominance of these streaming giants poses a threat to local culture and independent production companies.
Protecting Intellectual Property
Last year, screenwriters’ and actors’ guilds in North America engaged in strikes and stoppages to secure residual payments for their work on streaming platforms. Similarly, in Australia and other countries, independent screen businesses face new market dynamics due to the global shift towards digital streaming platforms. Without government intervention, their financial viability and future existence are at risk. It is crucial to ensure that creative intellectual property created by Australians remains in the hands of Australian businesses and is not lost to global streaming platforms.
The Path Forward
Australia has been at the forefront of this debate, considering legislation to oblige streamers to reinvest in local content. The Screen Producers Association emphasizes the need for the government to incorporate intellectual property ownership protection into the law.
The call for regulation and IP protection is gaining momentum worldwide. It is crucial for governments to recognize the impact of streaming platforms and take action to safeguard the industry and promote local content. By addressing market failures and imbalance, governments can support independent screen businesses and protect intellectual property for the benefit of the industry and local audiences.
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