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WIPO Copyright Committee Holds Pragmatic Talks On Broadcasting Treaty; New Text Coming

The World Intellectual Property Organization copyright committee closed last week without a definite work programme for the next session but two new projects seem to have stirred up the committee after years of inconclusive talks on a proposed treaty protecting broadcasts, and exceptions to copyright for libraries, archives, education and research. The new subjects relate to exceptions for museums, and resale rights. Meanwhile, a new text on broadcasting is being prepared for next session.

WIPO Copyright Committee Hears Case For Exceptions For Museums

Museums usually gather heterogeneous objects, coming in various forms, and engage in different activities in relation to those objects. With the advance of information technologies, museums have to adapt and consider the digitisation of their collections, which brings copyright questions, according to a study presented yesterday at the World Intellectual Property Organization.

European Commission Unveils First Copyright Reform Proposals To Mixed Review

The European Commission's long-awaited effort to reform Europe's copyright system includes a proposal for cross-border portability of online content services and an action plan for updating copyright rules. The proposals are the first in its Digital Single Market strategy, the EC said. The announcement prompted mixed reviews from internet service provider and consumer groups and one EU lawmaker but a warmer reception from rights holders.

Big Rights Holders Favour Status Quo In EU Copyright Over Reform

BERLIN - Big rights holders and their attorneys do not yearn for a reform of European Union copyright. Participants in last week‘s Pan-European Intellectual Property Summit in Berlin discussed concerns about the potential extension of the rules of origin to the internet, the CabSat directive and successful litigation against intermediaries in enforcing copyright.

Report: Ebola Distracted Global R&D Funding For Neglected Diseases; Public Funding At Low

A newly issued report provides the “first ever” picture of global investment in Ebola research and development. The report found that investment in Ebola might have come at the expense of other funding to develop drugs, vaccines and diagnostics for other neglected diseases. The report also found that public funding on research and development for neglected diseases was at its lowest in years.