Netflix has responded to criticism about the removal of at least 19 films from the ‘Palestine Stories’ collection, explaining that the films are being taken off the platform due to expiring licenses, not deletion.
“We launched this licensed collection in 2021 for a three-year term, which has now expired. We remain committed to investing in a wide range of films and shows that highlight voices from around the world,” Netflix said in a statement to Deadline.
The removal has sparked reactions from rights groups and activists, including Freedom Forward, a human rights organization based in San Francisco. The group has issued an open letter and petition calling on Netflix to explain its decision, noting that the removal comes at a difficult time for Palestinians.
Sunjeev Bery, Freedom Forward’s executive director, urged Netflix to reconsider its decision. “While licensing may be a factor, Netflix should work to maintain global access to Palestinian films, especially given the current situation,” he told Deadline.
Netflix initially launched the “Palestine Stories” collection in October 2021 with 32 films by Palestinian filmmakers or about Palestinian stories, calling it a “tribute to the creativity and passion of the Arab film industry.” Currently, the Pakistani Netflix library features only two titles from the collection: 200 Meters and Ibrahim: A Fate to Define.
