The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is poised to announce a new definition of Canadian content today, which will specifically apply to television and online streaming services. This modernization comes in response to the evolving landscape of media consumption and the increasing prominence of digital platforms.
The forthcoming decision follows a two-week public hearing conducted by the CRTC earlier this year, during which stakeholders from various sectors, including creators, broadcasters, and the streaming industry, provided their insights and opinions. The current definition employed by the CRTC awards points based on the involvement of Canadians in key creative positions within a production, a system that has been in place for years.
This review is part of a broader initiative by the CRTC to implement the Online Streaming Act, which updates Canada's broadcasting laws to better encompass online platforms, such as Netflix and other foreign streamers. In recent times, the CRTC has taken significant steps towards ensuring that these global platforms contribute to the Canadian media landscape, reflecting the diverse voices and stories present in the country.
An essential aspect of the CRTC’s efforts includes a prior decision mandating that large foreign streaming services participate financially in the production of Canadian content. This requirement aims to foster local talent and enhance the quality and quantity of Canadian-made productions. However, this decision is currently under scrutiny, as it faces a legal challenge in the courts.
The significance of the CRTC's updated definition of Canadian content cannot be overstated. As audiences increasingly turn towards streaming services for their entertainment needs, the need for a relevant and inclusive definition that encompasses a wider array of productions becomes imperative. The CRTC’s decision could potentially reshape the landscape of Canadian programming by clarifying what constitutes Canadian content in the digital age, ensuring that Canadian stories continue to be told and shared with both domestic and international audiences.
Overall, the CRTC’s announcement is anticipated with great interest by various stakeholders within the broadcasting and streaming sectors. It marks a crucial step towards adapting to contemporary media consumption trends and reinforcing the value of Canadian content in a rapidly changing digital environment.
