The European Parliament has adopted its report on copyright and generative artificial intelligence – opportunities and challenges – with a huge majority. This is good news for Europeans, especially when compared to the long‑grass limbo currently prevailing in the United Kingdom, where we wait patiently for Wednesday’s statement, which may or may not be substantial.
The report clearly acknowledges the importance of European culture, which has been used by generative AI developers largely without permission and without any form of payment to the original human creators. Without taking a position, the report addresses:
- Transparency – required at a granular level
- Labelling – protecting consumers who want human‑created works
- Remuneration – human creators should be paid when their works are used
- Exceptions – not justified, and the EU opt‑out approach is unworkable
- Extraterritorial application of copyright rules – the laws of the market being accessed apply
Its recommendations are not rocket science, simply intelligent and in favour of European culture. Despite the events of 23 June 2016, culture remains important in the United Kingdom. Art and culture help us address the chasm between the world as we imagine it and the world as it actually is.
If the European Commission takes the initiative to act in this area, this report is an outstanding contribution and guide. Policymakers across Europe, including in the United Kingdom, should take note of the carefully crafted recommendations. If anything, the report provides a comprehensive and intelligent point of reference for policy discussions on copyright and AI.
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/A-10-2026-0019_EN.html
Author: Florian Koempel, BCC international consultant