Implementation Of The CRM Directive – What Does It Mean For Music Users?

Executive Summary

In 2014, the new Directive concerning the collective management of copyright was introduced. The Directive sought to overhaul the law regulating collecting societies and other rights management organisations in Europe. Since that time, UK legislators have introduced new regulations to implement the Directive, including the Collective Management of Copyright (EU Directive) Regulations 2016. Last week, the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) issued detailed guidance for collective management organisations which throws helpful light on how compliance with the Regulations should be approached. This Reed Smith Alert sets out an overview of the IPO's guidance and what it means for music users.