Copyrights Law in Gabon
Here’s an overview of Copyright Law in Gabon based on general knowledge and international standards, with some specifics where available:
Copyright Law in Gabon
Legal Framework
Gabon’s copyright laws are primarily governed by national legislation aligned with international treaties and conventions.
Gabon is a member of the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), which harmonizes intellectual property laws across its member states, including Gabon.
OAPI provides a unified system for copyright protection under the Bangui Agreement (revised in 1999), which Gabon follows.
Key Points of Gabonese Copyright Law:
Protected Works: The law protects literary, artistic, scientific works including books, music, films, software, paintings, sculptures, and more.
Originality: Protection applies to original works that are the author’s intellectual creation.
Duration of Protection: Generally, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus 50 years after their death, following OAPI/Bangui Agreement rules.
Rights Granted:
Economic Rights: Right to reproduce, distribute, perform, broadcast, adapt, and exploit the work commercially.
Moral Rights: Right of attribution, right to object to derogatory treatment of the work.
Registration: Registration is not mandatory to obtain copyright protection, but it may help in disputes.
Infringement: Unauthorized use or reproduction of copyrighted works can lead to civil and criminal penalties.
Exceptions & Limitations: Fair use for education, research, private use, news reporting, and parody may be allowed under certain conditions.
International Treaties
Gabon is a signatory to important international treaties that influence its copyright laws, including:
Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works
Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)
WIPO Copyright Treaty
Enforcement
The OAPI tribunal and national courts handle disputes related to copyright infringement.
Gabon cooperates with regional and international organizations to enforce copyright.
RELATED Blog
0 comments