Related rights, also known as neighboring rights, are rights that protect individuals and organizations that contribute to the creation, production, and distribution of creative works but are not the original authors. These rights exist alongside copyright and provide legal protection to performers, producers, and broadcasters.
Key Categories of Related Rights
- Rights of Performers
- Protects actors, musicians, dancers, and other performers from unauthorized recording, reproduction, and distribution of their performances.
- Example: A singer’s live performance cannot be recorded and sold without permission.
- Rights of Producers of Sound Recordings (Phonograms)
- Protects music and audio recording producers from unauthorized copying and distribution.
- Example: A record label has exclusive rights to distribute a recorded album.
- Rights of Broadcasting Organizations
- Protects TV and radio broadcasters from unauthorized rebroadcasting or copying of their programs.
- Example: A TV station’s live coverage of a sports event cannot be retransmitted without authorization.
Difference Between Copyright and Related Rights
- Copyright protects the original creator (author, writer, artist) of a work.
- Related rights protect those who help distribute and present creative works to the public (performers, producers, broadcasters).
Importance of Related Rights
- Encourages investment in media and entertainment industries.
- Ensures fair compensation for those involved in the performance, recording, and broadcasting of works.
- Helps prevent unauthorized copying and misuse of performances and recordings.
Conclusion
Related rights extend copyright protections to those who bring creative works to the public, ensuring that performers, producers, and broadcasters receive fair recognition and compensation for their contributions.