Copyrights Law in Kuwait
Here’s an overview of Copyright Law in Kuwait:
Copyright Law in Kuwait
Legal Framework:
Copyright in Kuwait is primarily governed by Law No. 65 of 1999 on Copyright and Neighboring Rights.
Kuwait is a member of several international treaties, including:
Berne Convention
WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT)
TRIPS Agreement
Rome Convention
Protected Works:
Copyright protection covers original works expressed in a tangible form, including:
Literary works (books, articles, poems)
Musical works and lyrics
Dramatic and choreographic works
Cinematographic and audiovisual works
Artistic works (paintings, sculptures, photographs)
Computer programs and databases
Architectural designs
Rights Granted:
Economic rights: reproduction, distribution, public performance, broadcasting, adaptation, and communication to the public.
Moral rights: the right to attribution and to object to distortion or modification that harms the author's honor or reputation.
Economic rights can be assigned or licensed, moral rights are generally inalienable.
Duration of Protection:
Copyright lasts for the life of the author plus 50 years after death.
For joint works, 50 years after the death of the last surviving author.
For anonymous or pseudonymous works, 50 years from the date of publication.
Related rights (performers, producers) also have a 50-year term.
Exceptions and Limitations:
The law allows for fair use exceptions such as:
Personal use and private study
Quotation for criticism or review
Use for education and research
Use by libraries and archives
These exceptions must not conflict with the normal exploitation of the work or unreasonably prejudice the rights of the author.
Enforcement and Remedies:
Enforcement is through civil and criminal courts.
Remedies include injunctions, damages, seizure and destruction of infringing materials.
Criminal penalties can include fines and imprisonment.
Customs authorities assist in preventing import/export of infringing goods.
Registration:
Copyright protection is automatic on creation and fixation.
Registration is not mandatory but can be helpful as evidence in infringement cases.
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