A significant panel discussion titled “The Role of IP & Copyright for Audio-Visual Performers and Content Creators” took place today at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai. The event gathered prominent figures from the entertainment, legal, and creative sectors to explore the critical role of intellectual property (IP) rights in supporting creators in the digital era. The discussion underscored the urgent need for enhanced awareness and protection of IP rights, particularly for performers and content creators facing increasing risks of unauthorized use and exploitation of their work.
Insights from Industry Leaders
The session was moderated by Shri Ameet Datta, a veteran lawyer, who guided a vibrant discussion among a distinguished panel of experts. Among the panelists was Mr. Daren Tang, the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). He provided a global perspective on policy frameworks and highlighted WIPO’s initiatives aimed at strengthening protections for performers worldwide. Tang praised India’s remarkable IP journey over the past five decades and noted the significant growth of its creative economy. He emphasized the necessity of transforming the global IP ecosystem, stating that IP serves as a catalyst for employment, development, and innovation across all nations. Furthermore, he discussed WIPO’s creative economy data model, which assists policymakers and creators in member states to better measure the impact of the creative economy.
Challenges in Protecting Creative Works
Feroz Abbas Khan, an acclaimed director and playwright, shared his experiences from decades in the theatre industry, discussing the challenges of protecting original creative works. He stressed that intellectual property is fundamentally about human dignity and that society must respect the contributions of artists. Khan’s insights highlighted the ongoing struggle for creators to safeguard their intellectual contributions in an environment where unauthorized use is prevalent.
Steve Krone, a noted film and television producer, also contributed to the discussion by emphasizing the critical role of copyright in safeguarding investments in audio-visual storytelling. He called for standardized global enforcement mechanisms, asserting that copyright is not merely a financial issue but also about maintaining control over creators’ works to prevent exploitation. His remarks underscored the importance of robust copyright protections in fostering a sustainable creative industry.
Veteran screenwriter Anjum Rajabali addressed the complexities of the current content economy, stressing the importance for writers to understand and assert their rights. He pointed out that while access to content has become easier, it is essential to implement restrictions to protect creators. Throughout the session, the panelists engaged in a thorough examination of various topics, including copyright ownership, licensing, moral rights, and the implications of artificial intelligence. They also discussed the delicate balance between access to content and the protection of creators’ rights in an increasingly digitized world.
The panel discussion at WAVES 2025 served as a vital platform for addressing the pressing issues surrounding intellectual property rights, reinforcing the need for stronger protections for creators in the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.
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