Netflix has refuted claims that it removed Palestinian films from its platform, explaining that a collection titled “Palestine Stories,” featuring at least 19 films, is being taken down due to expired licensing agreements.
“We launched this licensed collection of films in 2021 for three years. Those licenses have now expired. As always, we continue to invest in a wide variety of quality films and TV shows to meet our members’ needs, and celebrate voices from around the world,” the streaming service stated in a response to Deadline.
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This move has triggered significant backlash from human rights organizations and activists. Freedom Forward, a San Francisco-based group, has begun an open letter and petition calling for Netflix to provide an explanation regarding the removal of these films.
A coalition of organizations, including the Arab American Action Network, Council on American Islamic Relations, and Freedom Forward, has voiced deep concern over Netflix’s decision to eliminate at least 19 films created by Palestinian filmmakers or focused on Palestinian narratives. This sentiment was conveyed in an open letter signed by various advocacy groups.
Sunjeev Bery, executive director of Freedom Forward, stressed the importance of reinstating these titles.
“While I understand that licensing issues may be involved, it is crucial for Netflix to ensure global access to Palestinian films, especially during such a challenging time for Palestinians,” he remarked in an interview with Deadline.
Bery also highlighted the lack of communication from the platform regarding the removals and criticized Netflix for not making adequate efforts to renew the necessary licenses. The decision has ignited widespread discussion about the role of streaming services in promoting diverse voices and narratives.
When Netflix launched the Palestine Stories Collection in October 2021, it presented a selection of 32 films either directed by Palestinian filmmakers or centered on Palestinian themes. This collection highlighted the works of prominent directors such as Annemarie Jacir, Mai Masri, Mahdi Fleifel, Susan Youssef, May Odeh, and Farah Nabulsi, and was described as “a tribute to the creativity and passion of the Arab film industry.”
Currently, the Pakistani version of Netflix features only two films from the Palestine Stories Collection: 200 Meters and Ibrahim: A Fate to Define. This reduction has raised concerns among viewers and advocates about the accessibility of Palestinian narratives on major streaming platforms.
