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The copyright law in Laos evolved to align with international standards following Laos' accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2013. As a direct result, the Law on Intellectual Property No. 38/NA of 13 November 2007 (IP Law) was amended to broaden and strengthen copyright protection. The IP Law covers a wide range of categories under copyright, including literature, art, scientific works, and associated rights.
Understanding and navigating intellectual property laws can be intricate and complex, particularly if you are dealing with international regulations. You may need a lawyer to clarify your rights as a creator, file a copyright application, or to take legal action if your copyright is infringed. Lawyers can also assist in drafting contracts that ensure your intellectual property rights are protected when you work with publishers or production companies.
According to the IP Law in Laos, copyright protection is provided for the life of the author plus fifty years following death, mirroring international standards. The party that owns the rights to a work does not need to register to receive copyright protection. However, registration can serve as legal evidence in the case of disputes. Laos also recognizes moral rights of the author such as the right to claim authorship of the work and the right to object to any derogatory action towards their work.
Copyright protection in Laos covers literary, scientific, and artistic domains. This includes books, music, films, paintings, and computer programs among others.
The duration of copyright protection in Laos is for the life of the author plus fifty years following death. This applies to both published and unpublished works.
While copyright protection is automatic in Laos, registration can valuable as it serves as legal evidence in case of disputes.
Through the Berne Convention, of which Laos is a member, foreign copyrights are recognized and can be enforced in Laos.
Copyright infringement typically involves the unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution of a copyrighted work. This can include using copyrighted music without permission or distributing pirated software.
If your copyright is violated in Laos, you can file a complaint with local authorities or take legal action against the infringer. It's recommended to consult with a lawyer to explore your options.
The Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) under the Ministry of Science and Technology is the main agency responsible for intellectual property issues in Laos. You might also find it useful to consult publications and resources from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to understand international norms and practices.
If you believe your copyright has been infringed, contact a reputable local lawyer who specializes in intellectual property law. They can guide you through the process of protecting your rights and pursuing legal action if necessary. It's also important to keep a record of your work and any contracts or agreements related to your copyright.
