The National Center of Cinematography and the Central State Film Archive called for clearer measures against the unauthorized use of works and for guarantees regarding payment to authors. Representatives from cinematography and copyright institutions raised concerns regarding the use of artistic materials without authorization or appropriate remuneration.

“In present-day Albania, Albanian actors, singers, artists, and writers have not managed—and still cannot manage—to receive the income due to them from the use, sale, and broadcasting of their works because our system has been failing,” stated MP Ina Zhupa.

The Central State Film Archive faces similar problems. Director Eljan Tanini notes that people frequently reuse and post its materials on social media, ignoring copyright laws.

The YouTube platform presents another problem, as authors have never received any compensation from it. Tanini called for a stronger role for institutions in removing content published without authorization, while also highlighting the immense value of films and photographs as part of the national memory.

The National Center of Cinematography requested that the new law should address more clearly the broadcasting and screening of audiovisual works on online platforms.

The Copyright Directorate noted that the draft law creates the first dedicated framework and procedure for handling unauthorized content on digital platforms.

According to Copyright Directorate Director Borana Ajazi, the new law innovates by securing digital copyright protections and creating a specialized team to combat unauthorized online sharing.

The committee also discussed adjusting penalty amounts for entities that use copyrighted music without paying fees.

The committee requested that participating institutions submit—by September 30—written proposals and identify any issues that should be reflected in the draft law. /p.s./