
ArmInfo. Armenian authorities intend to develop legal mechanisms for the protection of copyright and related rights. Amendments to the Law on Copyright and Related Rights and a package of related laws will be discussed at a November 10 meeting of the National Assembly Committee on Education, Science, Culture, Sports, and Diaspora.
As the Deputy Minister of Economy of the Republic of Armenia noted in his speech, the goal of the legislative initiative is to improve legislation on the legal protection of copyright and related rights by defining approaches and creating a legal basis for the application of mechanisms equivalent to modern international developments in this area. Many provisions of international treaties concluded by Armenia in this area are also reflected in the draft law.
The legislative initiative envisages the introduction of procedures for state accreditation and oversight of collective property rights management organizations, as well as five-year accreditation of the organization's staff, which will handle oversight functions, recordkeeping, and logistical support. Particular attention is paid to reporting. Companies are required to publish contract forms, annual reports, and independent auditors' reports.
At the same time, plans are underway to create a legal mechanism for the expanded management of copyright and related rights. In order to ensure transparency in the sector, it is planned to increase the accountability of rights management organizations and ensure effective protection of authors' interests. The proposed measures are also aimed at bringing Armenian legislation into line with modern international developments and international treaties. According to Commission Chairman Sisak Gabrielyan, the presented package is very important and timely. Artists often point out copyright infringements when their works are performed in restaurants and cafes without permission. The bill addresses this issue.