A significant majority of Quebec residents are pushing back against the provincial government's plan to impose French music quotas on popular streaming services, according to a recent Léger survey commissioned by an international digital media association.
Overwhelming Public Opposition
The poll results published in late November reveal that 61 percent of Quebecers believe French-language music is already easily discoverable on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Even more notably, 66 percent stated the government should not interfere with music availability on streaming services.
Conducted in October 2023 with 1,016 Quebec respondents, the survey indicates strong resistance to potential consequences of the proposed legislation. 76 percent would oppose the rules if subscription costs increased, while 65 percent object if the regulations prompted streaming giants to exit the Quebec market entirely.
Streaming Giants Voice Concerns
The Washington-based Digital Media Association (DIMA), which represents streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple, YouTube and Amazon, commissioned the research as these companies uniformly oppose Quebec's Bill 109. The proposed legislation aims to promote "cultural sovereignty" and enhance the "discoverability of French-language cultural content in the digital environment."
Lisa Covens, senior vice-president at Léger, summarized the findings: "The findings show that Quebecers place real importance on having the freedom to navigate new artists and genres when they stream music. The notion of government influencing what's available doesn't match what many respondents say they want."
Legislative Battle Over Cultural Sovereignty
Bill 109 represents sweeping changes currently under review by a National Assembly committee. The legislation would mandate French-language defaults on apps, establish quotas for French audio and video content, require smart televisions to highlight French programming, and embed access to French content within the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.
Culture Minister Mathieu Lacombe has defended the proposed measures as "essential for the future of our culture and our language," particularly among younger generations. Quebec's arts community and French-language commissioner have expressed support, citing ongoing challenges for local artists.
However, streaming companies have submitted formal briefs outlining their objections. Spotify, with its 280 million paid global subscribers, warns that technical constraints could degrade user experience and reduce engagement. The company further argues that such regulations might drive listeners toward unauthorized platforms not subject to the restrictions, ultimately harming Quebec artists rather than helping them.
Graham Davies, DIMA's chief executive, emphasized that streaming services already function as "one of the strongest engines for Québec's music ecosystem, helping turn piracy into prosperity." He noted these platforms already support francophone and Quebec talent by providing global exposure.
Legal experts including McGill University internet law lecturer Allen Mendelsohn suggest streaming services might withdraw from Quebec rather than comply with the regulations as currently drafted. Alternatively, major platforms would likely mount legal challenges and seek negotiated agreements before deciding whether to maintain operations in the province.
