1. Directorate INFSO E meeting 7-10-2003 The public domain in the information Society

2.  All information resources not covered by IPRs  raw data: facts, numbers etc.  IPRs expired  decision rightholders  PSI in US (by definition)  Material can be re-used without consent or conditions What is the public domain?

3. The IPR environment Copyright directive Database directive Extension term of protection – now 70 years after death author Proposal for an enforcement directive Tendency towards more protection: Copyrights come automatically!

4. The Information Society: A challenge to copyright Enhances sharing and re-use Sharing paradox: – better technical possibility to share – tendency towards avoiding sharing How to protect interests of creators?

5.  Efficient sharing of knowledge  essential for innovation  societal and economic benefits (re-use)  Access to information for all  Spread of cultural heritage  Libraries, archives (e.g. films) The public domain: What is at stake?

6. The rationale of IPRs IPRs create de facto monopoly Incentive for creation and innovation Does expansion of protection serve this goal? Balance between sharing and keeping

7. Expanding the public domain? Reduce the term of protection Public domain enhancement act (US) Exclude PSI from IPRs Compulsory licences for specific types of content ?

8. What can WE do? Promote the public domain as a concept – Input from units on relevant issues Monitor relevant IPR issues PSI-debate Analysis of economic and social importance of public domain

9. Opportunities and Risks Public domain is powerful, positive concept in IPR discussion Much to be gained for IS But: Position media-industries Need to build support