Writers & Directors Worldwide backs agreement on European Copyright Directive

February 14th, 2019 – Writers & Directors Worldwide, representing audiovisual creators in 69 countries across the world, welcomes the agreement in Trilogue discussions on the EU Copyright Directive in Brussels and urges prompt adoption of the Directive by the European Union.

The Directive is a good step forward for audiovisual creators in Europe which advances the cause for fair remuneration of audiovisual creators globally.

Writers & Directors Worldwide highlights, in particular, the provisions of Chapter 3 of the Directive, aiming to provide a fair bargaining position for authors, and the new Article -14, which establishes a clear principle of proportionate remuneration for authors and performers.

W&DW is joining its partner organisations, SAA, FERA, FSE and CISAC, in welcoming the potential conclusion to the Copyright Directive discussions after three years of intense debate.

W&DW President Horacio Maldonado says: “This is a very important step forward for European authors but also for our global campaign for better, fairer conditions for screenwriters and directors. This is an essential element for the creative sector in Europe, where disparate conditions existed and often did not allow authors to obtain remuneration linked to the revenue generated by the exploitation of their works. The Directive agreed in the Trilogue in addresses this injustice, and this and sends an encouraging message that will be heard by creators, governments and policy makers around the world.”