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EFADs Resolution on the Potential Reforms to European Union copyright rules

The European Film Agencies have adopted in March 2015 a common resolution on the EU plans to reform the copyright framework. This first paper, that launches the reflection of the EFADs, will be followed by an in-depth assessment of the EU initiatives and their impact on the way films and audio-visual works are financed and distributed.

“As organisations dedicated to supporting the creation, production and distribution of European works, we fully share the objective to promote the circulation of works and their availability to an increasingly wider public, but we would be deeply concerned about any proposals that would endanger the financing of film and television productions” underlines P. Dinges, President of the EFADs.

Acknowledging that copyright is a powerful tool to stimulate creativity, learning and innovation, the EFADs stress in particular that:
● the current copyright framework is fit for purpose
● licensing on a territory-by-territory basis is an essential element in the mix for raising finance for audiovisual productions. It is also a means for optimal distribution of works, adapted to local audiences
● it is vital to establish a level playing field ensuring equal treatment between all operators when completing the Digital Single Market
● any reform of EU copyright law should go together with a stronger enforcement of rights policy

On this sensitive issue, it urges the European institutions to adopt an evidence-based and targeted approach, informed by impact assessments and to avoid any “big bang” policy changes, instead opting for a gradual solution developed in close cooperation with the relevant stakeholders.

Note to the editors: About the EFADs: The Association of the European Film Agency Directors brings together the Directors of European Film Agencies in 31 countries in Europe (EU, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland). The EFADs represent government, or government associated bodies, in charge of national funding for the audiovisual sector and with the responsibility to advise on all aspects of national and European audiovisual policies.

Contact: Iveta Dimova, General Secretary of the EFADs

16/03/2015 Press Release ( Pdf - 109Ko) pdf
16/03/2015 Communiqué de Presse en français ( Pdf - 259Ko) pdf

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