International Forum Marking Centennial of Chinese Copyright Legislation
.jpg)
The year 2010 marks the centennial of China's first publication on copyright legislation, namely "大清著作权律" (Copyright Law of Qing Dynasty). To recognise this significant occasion, an international forum, organized by China Law Society, Copyright Society of China and Renmin University of China, was held in Beijing during 14-15 October 2010.
Mr. Francis Gurry, director general of World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), acknowledged in his message of congratulations specifically the challenge to copyright legislation brought about by digital technology and the internet, which have triggered radical changes in many aspects no less than the art of printing, an invention having its origin in China.
Another distinguished speaker, Mr. Yan Xiaohong, deputy director of National Copyright Administration, talked about copyright protection and enforcement in China. He mentioned that between 2000 and 2009, 8.3 million copyright-related cases were identified and 710 million pirated products seized; whereas since the launch of crackdown on online piracy and infringement in 2005, 2,621 online pirated cases were investigated and dealt with, 1,198 pirated websites closed, and 91 cases transferred for judicial disposal. Besides, 15,000 copyright-related civil cases were heard in 2009, an increase of 40% from the previous year.
The forum has served as a useful platform for exchange and dialogue on the developments of and challenges to copyright protection. It was attended by more than 400 experts, academics, legal practitioners, enterprises and media representatives from Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America.
Mr. Shen Rengan, chairman of Copyright Society of China, presiding over the meeting
Mr. Xu Jialu, former vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of the PRC
Mr. Liu Binjie, director of National Copyright Administration of the PRC
Mr. Yan Xiaohong, deputy director of National Copyright Administration of the PRC
Mr. Liu Chuntian, dean of Intellectual Property Academy of Renmin University of
Mr. Adolf Dietz, professor of Max Planck Institute for Intellectual Property, Competition and Tax
Mr. Feng Zhenyu, professor of
Ms. Li Yahong, professor of Hong Kong University
