YouTube, Facebook, TikTok and other online platforms will need authorization to use works protected by copyright and must respond when infringements are found. This is one of the novelties of the copyright law, approved today by the Assembly, according to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports, Blendi Gonxhja.
Another change is the obligation for international platforms operating in Albania but without a headquarters in the country to appoint a legal representative. According to Gonxhja, this will give Albanian authors a specific address where they can seek the enforcement of their rights.
The law also provides for strengthening authors’ position in contracts. They will have the right to be informed about how their works are used and how much income they generate, and to request a review of the contract when they consider the remuneration unfair.
Gonxhja also announced the reorganization of the structure responsible for copyright within the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports. According to him, a dedicated structure will be created to protect copyright in the digital field, while the staff will be increased by 11 employees. According to the minister, the law aims to better protect Albanian creators, increase the responsibility of online platforms and align Albanian legislation with European standards.