Book authors, journalists complain of unclear rights on publications ahead of Copyright Reform
In some particular cases, publishers never even inform the authors of how many of their books were sold
Rights to which book authors are entitled to need to be clearer and standard legislation needs to be set up to protect the rights of journalists and writers across Europe. This was the common sentiment expressed by authors and journalists who participated in a meeting with Nationalist MEP Therese Comodini Cachia who is the rapporteur on the Copyright Reform on an EU level.
Book authors complained about the fact that local book publishers do not inform authors of their basic rights with regard to royalties and financial remuneration. There also seems to be a lack of a basic standard payment for an author’s work. In some cases, authors are promised financial profit through a percentage gained in royalties while others are promised a fixed sum. There is also lack of information as to how many books are actually printed and sold. In some particular cases, publishers never even inform the authors of how many of their books were sold.
Among the changes proposed in the copyright reform, the EU intends to make this information clearer and standardized. Meeting authors, MEP Therese Comodini Cachia said that the issues mentioned in meetings with Maltese authors, are similar to those expressed by other authors in other EU countries.
Authors also mentioned issues related to the revision of contractual obligations. The MEP mentioned that among the changes proposed, the reform will bring about dispute resolution mechanism for authors and publishers to solve their issues before ending up in court.
The lack of collective representation for book writers is also an issue raised by participating authors.
The copyright reform will also look into articles and photo ownership of journalists and newspapers. The proposed change will provide for neighbouring rights to be given to the press publishers.
An IĠM representative speaking during the meeting with the PN MEP said that the first right should be that of the journalist, not the publishing newspaper. He mentioned the element of risk and reputation for journalists which needs to be respected.