Effective copyright law needed to protect artists' creativity: Experts

In the absence of an effective digital copyright law in Bangladesh, many artists are being deprived of fair recognition and financial benefits for their creative work, leading to a loss of emerging talent and a stagnation of creativity, according to experts and stakeholders.

Speaking at an event marking World Intellectual Property Day 2025 in the capital today (30 April), artists urged the government to take immediate steps to strengthen copyright protections and support creative industries.

The programme, held at the Foreign Service Academy, was organised by the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) under the industries ministry. Like many other countries, Bangladesh observes the day to promote awareness about intellectual property rights.

The programme was chaired by Md Obaidur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Industries, and joined by artists, producers, legal experts, and students.

The event was attended by Adilur Rahman Khan, adviser to the industries ministry; Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, renowned filmmaker and cultural affairs adviser; and music director Armeen Musa, who delivered the keynote address. 

In her speech, Armeen Musa pointed out that weak digital copyright laws across South Asia, particularly in Bangladesh, are depriving artists of their rightful earnings. 

She stressed that the situation is worsened by the absence of a Performing Rights Organization (PRO), which in many countries ensures artists receive royalties when their work is publicly performed.

What is a PRO

A Performing Rights Organization (PRO) collects royalties on behalf of lyricists, composers, and publishers when their music is publicly performed — on radio, television, streaming services, or at concerts. PROs act as intermediaries to ensure fair compensation for creators.

Speakers at the event noted that intellectual property plays an increasingly vital role in today's creative economy. They called for a strong legal framework, greater public awareness, and collaboration between public and private sectors to ensure the sustainability of creative industries.

Adilur Rahman Khan stated that protecting artists' intellectual contributions and ensuring fair payment is essential, and this can only be achieved through a modernised legal system. He said the government is already taking steps to update IP laws and strengthen protections across digital platforms.

Echoing this, Mostofa Sarwar Farooki highlighted Bangladesh's vibrant and diverse music culture as a critical part of its intellectual assets. He expressed concern that many songs and melodies are being misrepresented due to a lack of documentation and legal protection. 

"The government is planning new initiatives to uphold the rights of lyricists, composers, vocalists, and instrumentalists," he noted.

At the event, Certificates of registration were awarded to 24 Geographical Indication (GI) items, including Sundarbans honey, Madhupur pineapple, Cumilla khadi, Sylhet's Manipuri saree, Mirpur Katan, Sirajganj lungi, and Kumarkhali bed sheets.

Later, the event featured a cultural performance showcasing traditional instruments and musical innovation, along with an exhibition of the GI products.