CONSENSUS IN BRUSSELS: COPYRIGHT DIRECTIVE MOVES FORWARD

European independent labels, which two weeks ago vehemently voiced their objections to the EU about the latest draft of the Copyright Directive, have once again joined their voices—this time in full support of the amended legislation.

EU member states also endorsed the directive this week, allowing it to move through the final approval process in the parliament. The process will culminate in another vote of the whole parliament in the coming weeks.

Said IMPALA head Helen Smith: "We welcome the text and member-state approval. This will be the first piece of legislation anywhere in the world clarifying the position of platforms as regards copyright and licensing. It is a balanced compromise, taking on board the views of stakeholders representing different interests.

“Platforms play a unique role in the relationship between creators and citizens,” Smith continued, “and this directive puts a much-needed framework around that. We decided to hold our 100th board meeting in Brussels to honors the EU’s role in leveling the playing field online. Europe really has taken the lead on this worldwide."