The Case for a Strong BBC. Cultural Sovereignty and Public Service Broadcasting in the Netflix Era

Abstract

PSBs across the world are facing financial, technological and political pressures, yet audiences still need and want the benefits of public service media. If they are to survive, PSBs need to produce an agile response to the changing patterns of media consumption and the claims that markets can provide. Whilst the big streamers have produced great global content, they are unable to cover the range of the PSBs in reflecting the diversity and variety of British life and culture, nor take the same risks in nurturing new talent across the sector. Politicians must use the forthcoming BBC Charter renewal in 2027 to address the revolution in audience behaviour and changes in technology to reshape the choices available to the British public and beyond. The creative industries are a powerhouse of talent and contribute to some of our best prospects for global reach and economic growth. We must ensure they have a healthy future.