Public Comments Invited on Proposed Amendments to Maldives Copyright Act

The Maldivian government has called for public comments on proposed amendments to the Copyright Act, Law No. 23/2010 (Copyright and Other Related Rights Act). The Economic Committee of the Parliament, which has reviewed the bill, has opened the process for public input starting today.

Interested parties can submit their comments via email to [email protected] or in writing to the Parliamentary Office. The deadline for submitting comments is Monday, July 22 at 12:00 p.m.

The bill, introduced by PNC MP Fathimath Sauda on behalf of the government, aims to update the current copyright legislation. Although the Copyright Act has been in effect since April 20, 2011, it was designed based on the circumstances and understanding at that time. The proposed amendments seek to enhance the protection, benefits, and legal authority for artists and their works.

The government has emphasized the importance of updating the law to reflect modern challenges and opportunities in the creative industries. The current act, while a significant step when introduced, no longer meets the needs of contemporary artists and creators.

The call for public comments underscores the government's commitment to an inclusive legislative process, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered in shaping the future of copyright protection in the Maldives.