European Commission Launches Consultation On EU Copyright Modernisation

The European Commission today announced the launch of a public consultation on modernisation of European Union copyright rules.

The consultation is part of a larger process to review and update the region’s copyright laws.

Stakeholders are invited to share their views on areas identified in the Communication on Content in the Digital Single Market (IP/12/1394), including: “territoriality in the Single Market, harmonisation, limitations and exceptions to copyright in the digital age; fragmentation of the EU copyright market; and how to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of enforcement while underpinning its legitimacy in the wider context of copyright reform,” the Commission said in a release.

Internal Market and Services Commissioner Michel Barnier stated, “My vision of copyright is of a modern and effective tool that supports creation and innovation, enables access to quality content, including across borders, encourages investment and strengthens cultural diversity. Our EU copyright policy must keep up with the times.”

The Commission press release and background information are available here.