Strong copyright laws are essential to the health and growth of the software industry, but the BSA opposes efforts to impose government-mandated technology standards in the name of copyright protection.

The BSA promotes strong copyright protection for computer programs throughout Europe. We were an enthusiastic proponent of the EU's Directive on the Legal Protection of Computer Programs, adopted in 1991 and implemented in all EU countries. The “Computer Programs Directive”, as it is known, harmonized copyright rules for software EU-wide. By providing strong, harmonized protection for software, the Directive has contributed profoundly to the growth of the software industry and, in turn, to increased employment and productivity in Europe.

The BSA is also active on the EU Copyright Directive. Adopted by the EU in 2001, the Copyright Directive implements the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) Treaties on Copyright. The WIPO Treaties harmonize international copyright rules and give creators the means necessary to protect their works online.

In addition to being committed to strong copyright protections, BSA also supports technological solutions to protect copyrighted works. Often known as “digital rights management”, these technology-based mechanisms help content providers maintain the integrity and economic value of their works. In recent years, there has been dramatic growth in the breadth and quality of DRMs available. To foster this growth, BSA members strongly oppose government-mandated technology solutions. Such mandates stifle innovation, limit the DRM options available to consumers, and raise the costs of computers and consumer electronics devices.

The BSA likewise opposes copyright “levies” on IT products in Europe. Such levies unduly burden consumers and fail to compensate rightholders adequately.

Read what our members say. more>>>