IMPALA has welcomed the final approval of the Copyright Directive by European member states.
The Council of the EU approved the final text, following the vote by MEPs last month. It brings to an end over two years of legislative process and hundreds of hours of debates.
IMPALA’s executive chair, Helen Smith, said: “It was a long road and we would like to thank everyone who contributed to the discussion. As a result, we now have a balanced text that sets a precedent for the rest of the world to follow, by putting citizens and creators at the heart of the reform and introducing clear rules for online platforms.
The measures require full licensing of all platforms to cover user-generated content. Services such as YouTube would have to filter out copyrighted material if they did not secure licences.
“By adopting this landmark text, the EU has proved itself a leader in terms of delivering a fair, open and sustainable internet,” said Smith. “This text clarifies the position of platforms, building on European case law. It is a first of its kind, and sets an example for other countries across the globe."
IMPALA and its members will now focus on the implementation of the directive at national level – a process that could face challenges from opponents of Article 13.
Smith added: “The directive now has to be implemented nationally, and we look forward to continuing the discussion locally with our members and all interested stakeholders.”
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