Things are starting to get weird with Twitch and video game streamerst in Germany. A prominent German content channel, PietSmiet, was informed that in order to continue its business, it would need to acquire a broadcasting license. In Germany, a broadcasting license can cost anywhere between 1,000 and 10,000 Euros, depending on the size of a channel’s audience. Any broadcasting organization operating without a license is considered a pirate station and can be subject to being shut down.
While the law is admittedly outdated and subject to re-investigation in the future, for now it appears to be enforced on this level to prevent TV and radio stations from claiming to be streamers to get out of the licensing themselves. The problem here is scale, as it is doubtful many streamers, especially those starting out, can get that kind of money straight-up to get a license. Streaming is largely an independent effort build from the ground-up, while radio and TV channels usually begin with investment capital.
This story comes from a UK outlet, which explains the difference between the German ruling and situation in the UK. Things are definitely under examination, and I can’t help but wonder what happens if the US gets wind of these new rulings. Could everyone eventually need a license?
Source: Esports News