Concerns about the S4C-iPlayer agreement

Cymdeithas yr Iaith has expressed concerns about the impact of the new agreement between S4C and BBC iPlayer on S4C’s digital service, Clic.

Cymdeithas’ main concern is the risk that this new arrangement could lead to the downgrading of Clic, the only streaming service designed entirely around the Welsh language and its audiences. The movement claims that relying on iPlayer presents a significant risk, as it would mean losing control over usage data and the algorithms that select and deliver content, and would undermine S4C’s plurality and independence.

Mirain Owen of Cymdeithas yr Iaith said:

“Of course we are pleased that Welsh-language content will have a more prominent place online, but there are dangers for plurality, independence and the sustainability of S4C in following this path. Clic is much more than a streaming service – it should be the main digital home of Welsh-language television. If we are serious about the future of Welsh in the digital world, we must ensure that Clic has a clear future, with the resources and priority it deserves. Visibility on other platforms must not come at the expense of the independence or digital infrastructure of the Welsh language. Embracing a multi-platform world must not mean that the Welsh-language channel neglects its own native platform.

“It is a fundamental principle that Welsh should have its own digital infrastructure: one that is independent, visible and governed according to the needs of Welsh speakers from all backgrounds. Welsh should be the main language of a dedicated digital platform, not a sub-category within a British platform that is English at its core.

“There is also an important question to be asked about elements of the channel’s ‘digital-first’ strategy which suggest that more and more S4C content in Welsh will no longer be available to viewers via Clic at all. Instead, the channel is now commissioning programmes and videos specifically for corporate platforms such as YouTube and TikTok.

“We also note that the announcement about iPlayer underlines the urgent need to devolve broadcasting powers to Wales. Without clear legislative control over our own media infrastructure, the Welsh language will remain vulnerable to the decisions and priorities of politicians and major broadcasters in London. It is time to move beyond uncertain partnership arrangements and ensure that the prominence of Welsh is a statutory right on every screen and across digital platforms.

“We call on S4C to give a clear and public commitment that Clic will remain the main digital home of Welsh-language television, with a level of investment, development and visibility that matches any external partnership. Increasing visibility is important, but it must not come at the cost of the independence or digital infrastructure of the Welsh language.”