Should New Zealand Accede to the WIPO "Internet Treaties"?
55. Respondents were asked what the relative advantages and disadvantages are for New Zealand copyright creators, owners and users of acceding to and implementing the WIPO Internet Treaties. The WCT and WPPT revise and update international copyright standards to take account of technological developments that have occurred since the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works was last revised in 1971. The WCT deals with the rights of authors of "literary and artistic works" including musical and dramatic works. The WPPT deals with the rights of performers and producers of phonograms (sound recordings).
56. Submissions from owners (particularly producers and publishers) saw advantages whereas users (including library groups and researchers) pointed to disadvantages of implementing the Treaties.
57. Respondents' views were sought on three possible options: retain the status quo; directly implement the WIPO Internet Treaties; or address New Zealand's particular needs, bearing in mind the WIPO Internet Treaties. The vast majority of respondents (in particular, library groups and educational institutions) considered that the third option was preferable, although there were different views on the weight that should be accorded to the Treaties. Only a small number of respondents (producers and publishers) suggested implementing the Treaties directly.
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