This research explores how content creators and communication experts perceive the proposed Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) Regulation for Digital, Social Media and OTT Platforms, 2021 (Draft). As digital media, social media, and OTT platforms continue to transform entertainment and communication in Bangladesh, the proposed regulation has generated significant debate regarding online content governance, freedom of expression, and consumer protection.
The study aims to examine whether the proposed regulation is viewed as a necessary framework for ensuring online safety and national security or as a potential restriction on creative freedom and independent content production. By collecting opinions from content creators and communication experts through qualitative in-depth interviews, the research seeks to identify both the anticipated benefits and possible challenges of implementing the regulation.
The research specifically focuses on understanding stakeholders' perceptions, evaluating the expected impact of the regulation on digital content creation, and assessing the necessity of regulatory intervention in Bangladesh's rapidly expanding digital media ecosystem. Findings are expected to provide valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, media professionals, and digital content creators by highlighting concerns, expectations, and recommendations regarding future regulatory policies.
This qualitative study employs convenience sampling, interviewing 20 participants (10 content creators and 10 communication experts). The research is planned over 120 days with an estimated budget of BDT 80,000, covering literature review, data collection, analysis, and report preparation.
Overall, the study contributes to the growing discussion on balancing digital governance, freedom of expression, consumer protection, and the sustainable development of Bangladesh's digital content industry.