Broadcasting Treaty

Introduction date

TBA

Summary

The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) has proposed a new treaty on the protection of broadcasting organisations, which is supported by the UK government.

The proposed treaty, which is the first update of rights affecting broadcasting organisations since the Rome Convention of 1961, is intended to tackle such issues as cross-border signal piracy. However, it is anticipated by some that its effect will be to give too much control over content to big businesses, notably in the area of webcasting.

The treaty was discussed by the WIPO Standing Committee on Copyright in Nov 2008, but there seems to be some way to go before a consensus is reached. Outstanding issues on the treaty are due to be discussed at a further meeting in May 2009.