This guide provides EBU Members with a reference tool addressing the main copyright issues faced by broadcasters. This handbook provides an overview of all relevant topics and illustrative case law as well as legal references to enhance the understanding of copyright matters in broadcasting.

It is geared to be a quick reference tool for broadcasting practitioners with a legal background who, while not being copyright experts, frequently deal with copyright-related matters. In this version, basic knowledge of copyright is assumed, and legal terminology and illustrative cases are used regularly.

The purpose of document is to give public service broadcasters a general introduction as well as an overview of key copyright issues, with a focus on EU law. It has no academic pretentions but is intended to be complementary to our Copyright Guide. Taking into account the complexity of copyright law, it should not be considered as a substitute for legal advice at the national level.