Copyright and Access to Knowledge

Policy recommendations on flexibilities in copyright laws. This groundbreaking study of the copyright laws of
11 developing countries reveals that public access to knowledge is being curtailed more than is necessary.

This is because the laws are more protective of copyright holders than they need be. 

Copyright and Access to Knowledge discloses that Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Thailand have all expanded the scope of copyright protection (i.e. the works to be protected and the rights accorded to copyright owners) beyond what is required by the international copyright treaties they have acceded to. In addition, they have not incorporated all the available limitations and exceptions that would have opened up access to knowledge.

More insidious however, is the legislative advice being provided by multi-lateral agencies such as the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). WIPO's advice to developing countries contained in its Draft Laws on Copyright and Related Rights does not take full advantage of all the flexibilities available under the various international copyright treaties.

Downloads (opens new window)

• Copyright and Access to Knowledge - full report (pdf) 
• CI Statement to WIPO (Word document)