A recent study published in the “Law and Society Students’ Journal” sheds light on the perceptions of university law students regarding Bangladesh’s proposed regulation of over-the-top (OTT) content. Conducted by Md Tahmid Hasan from the University of Helsinki, the research surveyed 203 legal studies students from the University of Rajshahi and Varendra University in December 2022. It highlights a growing concern over the balance between regulatory measures and creative freedom in the digital landscape.
The study reveals that while 58% of participants believe a dedicated law for regulating OTT content is necessary, a significant 69% were unaware of the specific draft law. This gap in awareness might hinder the effective implementation of regulations that could impact the burgeoning OTT market in Bangladesh. Over 60% of respondents expressed concerns that the law could restrict creative expression, and nearly half feared it could be misused.
Interestingly, despite Netflix and Hoichoi being the most popular platforms among the students, around 90% felt that Ullu, a platform with only 10% viewership among them, would be most affected by the new law. This perception indicates a potential misalignment between viewership data and regulatory focus, which could have implications for how these platforms operate in Bangladesh.
The implications of this regulation extend beyond content creators and consumers; they could also affect the energy sector. As OTT platforms often rely on substantial data transmission and server infrastructure, any regulatory changes could influence the demand for energy resources required to support these services. For instance, stricter regulations may lead to increased operational costs for OTT providers, which could, in turn, affect their energy consumption patterns.
Moreover, the study’s findings suggest opportunities for energy providers to engage with OTT platforms and content creators on sustainable practices. As the industry evolves, there is potential for collaboration on energy-efficient technologies that could mitigate the environmental impact of increased digital content consumption.
Md Tahmid Hasan’s research underscores the importance of understanding the perspectives of future legal professionals in shaping effective policies. As Bangladesh navigates the complexities of digital regulation, insights from this demographic could be crucial in ensuring that laws foster innovation while protecting creative freedoms. This study not only contributes to the discourse on OTT regulation but also highlights the interconnectedness of digital content and energy consumption, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the energy sector in Bangladesh.
