There is, in reality, no links with the Kremlin for Paris-based satellite operator Eutelsat, but that didn’t stop one shareholder using last week’s AGM at Eutelsat to complain about the operator broadcasting Russian channels.

The cause for the complaint are channels which are carried as part of – for example – Eutelsat’s popular 36 degrees East satellites. The satellite carries a significant 1,176 TV channels including bundles of channels for Russian controlled TriColor and NTV+.

The problem for Eutelsat is one of contractual obligations. It frequently sells wholesale capacity to third-party resellers and thus has little or no control over their end clients. Additionally, within Europe it has to abide by European regulations and directives. These would not apply to signals carried by third-party operators and could result in Eutelsat facing severe penalties for cancellations.

Eutelsat responded to the complaints, reported by Reporteros del Sur, by saying: “Eutelsat asserted its adherence to regulations, highlighting past measures where it ceased providing services to various Russian and Iranian outlets, including the state-run Russia Today, in December 2022.”

Eutelsat also mentioned ongoing discussions with French authorities about the potential for additional restrictions but clarified that they have not received direct orders to enforce further bans. Eutelsat emphasised its commitment to abiding by all current European sanctions, stating that its involvement with the sanctioned channels is “indirect.”

Eutelsat is also attempting to promote ‘freedom of expression’ amongst its clients, both direct and indirect.

However, as Reporteros del Sur states: “This diversity can be seen as beneficial in an increasingly polarised global environment. [But] the disadvantages are stark; the company’s broadcasts can be used for propaganda purposes, promoting disinformation that can exacerbate conflict situations and destabilize regions, particularly for audiences who may not have access to alternative viewpoints.”

Other posts by Chris Forrester:

1. AT&T explains AST SpaceMobile strategy
2. ESA introduces Fair Return structure
3. New EU space boss explains strategy
4. Eutelsat suffers from negative bank report
5. MultiChoice, eMedia make peace
6. Rivada Space “still working” with Terran Orbital
7. D2D: Power levels concerns
8. Terran Orbital hit with Class Action
9. Thales Alenia planning to stay solo

Categories: Blogs, Broadcast, DTH/Satellite, Inside Satellite, Policy, Regulation

Tags: dth, eutelsat, russia