ERRA organises 1st Intl Reprographic Rights Conference in UAE

Sharjah24: 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 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.