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London (AFP) – On Tuesday, the UK government revealed that major US streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video will now be subject to broadcasting regulations designed to safeguard children and vulnerable groups.
These platforms, alongside their UK counterparts, must adhere to the same content and accessibility standards that traditional broadcasters follow, according to an official statement.
Any “video-on-demand” service boasting over 500,000 users will need to align with rules set by Ofcom, the UK broadcasting authority, focusing on “protections from harmful material” and ensuring more shows are available with subtitles, sign language, and audio descriptions.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the UK government attributed this decision to the evolution of how audiences consume television content.
“It’s clear that the way people watch TV has undergone a significant transformation,” stated Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy in the announcement on Tuesday.
“Millions now choose to watch content on video-on-demand platforms alongside or, in the case of many young people, instead of traditional TV.”
The government said Ofcom would shortly begin a public consultation on the new streaming standards and accessibility codes, “which will be an opportunity for the public and providers to set out their views”.