Concerns raised by International Documentary Association about potential negative impact of Netflix-WBD deal on opportunities for documentarians.

The International Documentary Association has voiced strong opposition to Netflixs planned acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, arguing that the move could significantly harm the future of documentary storytelling. The organization, which advocates for nonfiction creators worldwide, issued the warning shortly after reports surfaced that Netflix had secured the winning bid for WBD.

In its statement, the association stressed that folding Warner Bros. Discovery into Netflix would unite two of the most influential distributors of documentary content, reducing the diversity of voices and perspectives available to the public. According to the IDA, such consolidation threatens filmmakers creative freedom, limits the kinds of stories that can be told and diminishes the range of documentaries audiences can access.

The group further cautioned that Netflixs dominant market position could suppress competition, curtail artistic expression and restrict viewer choice. It urged regulators to intervene and stop the acquisition, characterizing the deal as fundamentally anticompetitive and damaging to the health of the documentary field.

The IDAs stance aligns with concerns raised by multiple industry unions and guilds, including the Producers Guild of America, SAG-AFTRA, the Teamsters and the Writers Guild of America. Representatives across these organizations have warned that the merger poses risks to creators and the broader entertainment ecosystem.

Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery stated jointly that they intend to preserve WBDs ongoing operations and build upon its established strengths, including theatrical film distribution. WBD leadership has also attempted to reassure employees, suggesting that Netflix plans to retain the majority of staff and sees the companies as complementary.

Author: Sophia Brooks