Netflix and Amazon forced to promote and fund EU works
New ER rules may require on-demand services to help finance Europe-made films and TV
Brussels — Netflix, Amazon and other video-on-demand services will have to ensure that at least 30% of their catalogues are made up of Europe-made content, under new EU rules agreed Tuesday. EU lawmakers voted to adopt the policy to modernise audiovisual media legislation in an age in which people are watching more TV shows, movies and media clips online, on demand, and from their mobile devices. The legislation, which could also require online platforms to help finance Europe-made films and TV, still needs to be rubber-stamped by EU member states. Following this, countries will have about two years to incorporate the legislation into national laws. Some of the largest platforms already offer a large supply of European content but will have to boost it to meet the new rules. Any new shows and films will have to be matched with European ones to maintain the 30% quota level. Local content will also be required to be given good visibility and placement on the platforms, in accordance w...
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