We call on the EU to protect author’s rights and deliver on fairer Europe
The International and European Federations of Journalists (IFJ/EFJ), respectively the world and Europe’s largest journalists’ organisations, reiterate their calls on the EU to stand up for journalism and authors’ rights, as negotiations on a Directive on Copyright in the Digital Single Market draw to an end.
In this context, the IFJ and the EFJ recall that the key ambition for developing the legislation was to deliver on a fairer distribution of the revenues generated in the digital world. Extreme wealth generated online derives from the work of authors and creators, which is at the core of copyright licensing. Their remuneration should remain at the heart of this directive, not on its margins.
The IFJ and EFJ regret the deeply antagonistic debate on this legislation and the unprecedented lobbying from big business and self-styled freedom defenders against measures protective authors rights. This lobbying is calling for more inequality and precariousness for key actors of society, pushed to the brink of poverty. It is harming creativity, journalism and democracy.
We therefore demand a real neighboring right for press publications. Protect the sense and the integrity of Article 11.
We demand fair and proportionate pay, not charity. Uphold this principle in Recital 35 and safeguard Article -14 as it stands.
We demand clear transparency measures, not unenforceable measures. Safeguard Articles 14 to 16, including the revocation right in Article 16a.
Current regulations do not adequately protect authors and performers. A directive that worsens the situation and narrows down our rights would be bad news for Europe and is no option.
We therefore jointly call on you to give our sectors and people the support they urgently need, to deliver on the directive and to deliver on Europe.
Picture credit: Frederick Florin /AFP.
