Latest news with #InternationalReprographicRightsConference
Zawya
28-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
ERRA strengthens international partnerships to protect creators rights with agreements in India and Hong Kong
Sharjah: In a strategic move reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding creators' rights and fostering global partnerships in reprographic rights protection, the Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA) has signed two new agreements with the Indian Reprographic Rights Organisation and the Hong Kong Reprographic Rights Licensing Society. This collaboration follows the resounding success of the inaugural International Reprographic Rights Conference, recently held in Sharjah, where dynamic discussions laid the groundwork for robust global partnerships in this vital field. The partnership aims to facilitate the exchange of protected creative content among the three entities, ensuring that authors and publishers receive fair remuneration for the use of their works. These agreements reflect the signatories' commitment to compensating rights holders in both India and Hong Kong, while also developing more efficient mechanisms to safeguard intellectual property, especially in the face of challenges posed by the digital revolution. Empowering Creativity and Creators Majd Al Shehhi, Director of Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA), highlighted that this collaboration strengthens the association's role in protecting creators' rights both in the UAE and internationally while raising awareness of the importance of reprographic rights in advancing the publishing sector and supporting creativity. She stated: "This partnership marks a significant step towards empowering creators to monetise their intellectual output fairly and sustainably. Strengthening international cooperation is essential to ensuring the sustainability of the publishing sector and fostering creativity in the digital era, which demands innovative strategies for intellectual property protection." She further noted that this initiative reinforces the association's position as a key player in supporting the creative economy and expanding its global network with organisations dedicated to reprographic rights protection. Pranav Gupta, representative of the Indian Reprographic Rights Organisation, expressed his enthusiasm about the agreement, stating: "This initiative is a major boost for international cooperation in protecting authors' and publishers' rights. The exchange of intellectual assets among organisations will help creators expand their reach globally while ensuring they receive their rightful earnings in international markets. We look forward to further strengthening this partnership and exploring new avenues for collaboration in safeguarding the rights of writers and publishers." Similarly, Wong Sharon, Executive Director of Hong Kong Reprographic Rights Licensing Society, emphasised that the agreement underscores the three parties shared commitment to protecting creators' rights and advancing the global publishing industry. She noted: "Our collaboration with ERRA aims to establish frameworks that ensure the fair use of creative content while enabling authors and publishers to maximise returns on their work. We believe this partnership will contribute to a sustainable creative ecosystem and enhance public awareness of reprographic rights as a cornerstone of cultural innovation and production." UAE's Leadership in Creativity Protection This partnership reaffirms the UAE's leading role in supporting creators, as such collaborations open wider opportunities for authors and publishers to access global markets, ensuring international exposure while safeguarding their rights. This, in turn, strengthens the UAE's position as a regional and global hub for intellectual property protection. The agreement stands as a practical model of how international efforts can be unified to protect creators and enable them to benefit both financially and morally from their work. By fostering an environment that encourages creativity and innovation, these efforts are expected to lead to further expansions in global partnerships in the coming years, ensuring the sustainability of the publishing sector and the protection of creators' rights amid rapid digital transformations.
Mid East Info
20-02-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Under the patronage and presence of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi The First International Reprographic Rights Conference Kicks Off in the UAE
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Honorary President of the Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA), inaugurated the activities of the first International Reprographic Rights Conference in the United Arab Emirates, organised by ERRA over two days at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy (MOE) and the International Federation of Reprographic Rights Organisations (IFRRO). The opening ceremony of the conference was attended by His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy of the UAE, and Majd Al Shehhi, Director of the ERRA, alongside a group of international experts specialising in collective reprographic management, intellectual property, and the creative industries. The event also witnessed a gathering of writers, publishers, creative business owners, and academics. Creativity as a driving force for development: In her opening remarks, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi emphasised that the UAE, with its ambitious vision and knowledge-based economy, recognises that reprographic rights protection is both a legal obligation and a necessity for a flourishing creative economy and the promotion of innovation. She highlighted that intellectual property rights are the fundamental pillar that allows creators to transform their ideas into sustainable projects, enriching both the cultural and economic landscape. She said: 'In a world where ideas and knowledge are a kind of capital, protecting the rights of creators is not just a legal duty but a strategic imperative. Intellectual property is the backbone of a thriving creative economy that empowers people, strengthens industries, and fosters sustainable innovation. Through this conference, we reaffirm our commitment to building frameworks that balance accessibility with fairness, ensuring that the work of authors, publishers, and creatives continues to enrich societies worldwide. Working together, we can shape an ecosystem where creativity is valued and protected as a force for cultural and economic progress.' Leading the global dialogue: His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri delivered a compelling speech in which he highlighted the significant efforts of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi in advancing the publishing sector and creative industries in the UAE. He also acknowledged her leadership in driving international cooperation to protect and empower creators. He said: 'The UAE's hosting of the First International Reprographic Rights Conference reflects our commitment and active role in fostering discussions and dialogue on both local and global levels, providing all necessary means to support the protection of intellectual property rights, particularly reprographic rights.' He also stressed that, under the guidance of the UAE's visionary leadership, the country has made significant strides in developing an advanced legislative framework for intellectual property. Based on best international practices, this framework includes Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2021 on Reprographic Right and Related Rights. Through collaboration with key partners, the Ministry of Economy has worked tirelessly to create a competitive and robust legislative environment for authors and creative professionals, positioning the UAE as a leading global hub for creative industries. 'Enhancing international cooperation in reprographic protection and collaborating with relevant global institutions is essential for exchanging the latest expertise, best practices, and trends in this field. Therefore, the UAE has proactively joined international treaties and established fruitful partnerships to protect intellectual property rights and support the growth of businesses and activities within creative sectors such as culture, arts, music, and literature,' His Excellency concluded. Furthermore, he shared impressive statistics achieved by the intellectual property sector in the UAE by the end of 2024. Among the key figures, over 370,000 national and international trademarks are registered in the UAE markets, and over 21,000 intellectual works have been registered. Additionally, nearly 24,500 applications for intellectual work registration were received, and the total number of patents registered in the country exceeded 6,100. Moreover, over 9,500 industrial designs have been registered. His Excellency also highlighted the success of the Anti-Piracy Lab, launched by the Ministry last year to block websites violating intellectual property and copyright laws, which has successfully shut down 4,076 infringing websites. Prominent role: In a video address shown at the ceremony, Anita Huss, President of the IFRRO, affirmed the federation's support for the Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association, commending the association's significant role in raising awareness of copyright and intellectual property rights in the UAE and the wider region. She said: 'We are proud to be hosting the first International Reprographic Rights Conference in the UAE under the patronage of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, with whom I have always had the honour of engaging in fruitful discussions on the pivotal role of intellectual property in supporting creative and cultural industries. We have continuously explored ways to strengthen the collaboration between ERRA and IFRRO to establish a robust foundation for global reprographic rights protection.' Ambitious goals: This conference underscores the UAE's commitment to fostering a sustainable creative environment and supporting global efforts to protect intellectual property rights, recognising them as vital cultural and economic development components. With a clear set of ambitious objectives, the conference aims to raise awareness of reprographic rights and their crucial role in the creative economy, encouraging cooperation between collective management organisations (CMOs), publishers, and authors while facilitating the exchange of knowledge between regional and international reprographic rights experts. The conference will also highlight best practices in rights protection and the publishing industry's digital transformation. Panel discussions: The conference agenda on its first day featured panel discussions centred around the event's key themes. Majd Al Shehhi led a session titled 'Unauthorised Use and Its Impact on the Income of Creative Works,' which included contributions from His Excellency Dr Abdulrahman Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property Sector at the Ministry of Economy; Jim Alexander, International Director of the Copyright Agency at IFRRO; Dr Sharon Wong from the Hong Kong Copyright Licensing Association; and Dr Mohammed Al Kamali from ERRA. In another panel moderated by Jim Alexander, Michael Healy, Executive Director of Rights Owners and International Relations at CCC, discussed 'Collective Management as a Solution' with Sarah Tran from IFRRO, James Bennett from the UK Copyright Licensing Agency, and Ana Maria Cabanillas from the Copyright Administration Centre in Argentina (CADRA). A third session, titled 'Artificial Intelligence and Libraries in the Digital Age,' explored the impact of technological developments on libraries' future and AI's role in enhancing access to knowledge and protecting reprographic rights. Moderated by Alia Al Shamsi, the panel featured Fatima Al Hosani from the Ministry of Economy, Michael Healy from CCC, Nadia Masoud from the University of Sharjah, and Sheikha Al Mutairi from the Emirates Library and Information Association. The session focused on how creators and institutions adapt to digital and societal transformations impacting intellectual property rights. Notable attendees included writer and media figure Mohammed Bin Dakhin, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ERRA; His Excellency Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association; Dr Abdullah Al Sharhan, Secretary and Member of the Board of Directors of ERRA; writer Nadia Al Najjar; and Ahmed Hussein, CEO of the Malaysia Copyright Centre (MARC). Honouring: The first day also featured an honouring ceremony in an initiative that underscores the conference's commitment to recognising pioneering efforts in copyright protection and fostering international cooperation. During the event, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi presented appreciation awards to key strategic partners, including His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Ministry of Economy and Sarah Tran, IFRRO, as well as the conference speakers. This recognition celebrated their valuable contributions to raising awareness of intellectual property and reprographic rights while highlighting their efforts to keep pace with digital and legislative developments in the field.
Sharjah 24
30-01-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
ERRA organises 1st Intl Reprographic Rights Conference in UAE
The Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA) is organising a conference in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Economy and the International Federation of Reproduction Rights Organisations (IFRRO). This event aims to discuss the significance of safeguarding intellectual property rights and their impact on the creative economy. Importance of intellectual property rights Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi emphasised the conference's relevance to the UAE and the global creative sector. She stated, 'Hosting this conference conveys the sincerity of our ambition to be a leading world platform for dialogue on creators' rights.' By advocating for intellectual property protection, the UAE aims to empower creators and foster cultural and economic growth. UAE's commitment to reprographic rights Majd Al Shehhi, Director of ERRA, highlighted that hosting the first International Reprographic Rights Conference in the UAE showcases the nation's dedication to international dialogue on authors' rights. This commitment reflects the UAE's aspiration to adopt global best practices in cultural and educational sectors. Platform for knowledge exchange The conference serves as a vital platform for global experts and stakeholders to share knowledge and discuss development opportunities in Reprographic Rights protection. Al Shehhi noted that protecting creators' rights is both a moral obligation and a strategic necessity for enhancing the UAE's creative economy. Conference agenda The first day will feature panel discussions on collective management's role in Reprographic Rights protection, unauthorized use of creative works, and the implications of artificial intelligence in the digital age. The second day will focus on sessions for universities, authors, and publishers, including expert presentations on artificial intelligence and Reprographic Rights. Conclusion ERRA's organisation of this conference is part of its ongoing efforts to establish effective mechanisms for protecting documented works and their creators' rights. This event presents a valuable opportunity to share successful experiences and enhance the role of collective management organizations in promoting fairness and sustainability within the creative sector.
Zawya
30-01-2025
- Business
- Zawya
ERRA organises the first International Reprographic Rights Conference in the UAE
Bringing Together Representatives of Collective Management Organisations and Experts from Around the World Sharjah: Under the patronage and in the presence of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Honorary President of the Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA), the United Arab Emirates will host the first International Conference on Reprographic Rights Management. The event will see broad participation from representatives of collective management organisations and experts in the field of creative works' rights, taking place from 19 to 20 February 2025. The Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA) is organising this conference in partnership with the Ministry of Economy in UAE and the International Federation of Reproduction Rights Organisations (IFRRO). The conference aims to discuss the reasons, objectives, and importance of safeguarding intellectual property rights, their impact on the creative economy, and to highlight the vital role played by collective management organisations worldwide in protecting creators' rights and raising social awareness in this regard. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi stressed the conference's importance to the UAE and to the global creative sector. 'Hosting this conference in partnership with the Ministry of the Economy and IFRRO conveys the sincerity of our ambition to be a leading world platform for dialogue on creators' rights. By championing intellectual property protection, we empower creators everywhere to innovate, contribute, and drive dynamic and lasting cultural and economic growth.' Majd Al Shehhi, Director of the Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association, noted that hosting the first International Reprographic Rights Conference in the UAE underscores the country's position as a leading destination for organising international conferences and events, as well as discussing global issues. It also reflects the UAE's commitment to fostering global dialogue on Reprographic Rights and authors' rights, and its dedication to adopting the latest global practices in this field, consequently implementing them in the cultural and educational sectors. She explained, "The conference provides a vital platform for experts and stakeholders from around the world to exchange knowledge and experiences, and to discuss opportunities for development in the field of Reprographic Rights protection. This reflects the UAE's commitment to unifying efforts aimed at shaping a better future for the protection of creators' rights at both regional and global levels, and supporting the creative economy as a cornerstone of sustainable cultural and economic development." Al Shehhi added, "Protecting creators' rights is both a moral responsibility and a strategic necessity to enhance the creative economy in the UAE. This conference represents a qualitative initiative that reaffirms our commitment to playing our part in providing an environment that respects intellectual property rights and supports creators across various sectors." The first day of the conference programme will feature panel discussions on topics such as collective management and its active role in Reprographic Rights protection, unauthorised use, its impact on the returns of creative works, artificial intelligence and libraries in the digital age, as well as the effects of technological and social changes on rights holders, including authors, publishers, and creative sector professionals. The sessions on the second day will target representatives from universities, authors, and publishers, along with a presentation by experts on artificial intelligence and Reprographic Rights. "ERRA's" organisation of this event is part of its ongoing efforts to establish the best global mechanisms and practices for protecting documented works and the rights of their owners. The conference represents a valuable opportunity to exchange successful experiences and explore new horizons for enhancing the role of collective management organisations in achieving justice and fairness for creators, and ensuring the sustainability of the creative sector through both financial and moral gains.
