The "WIPO's Internet Treaties" enter into force

The WCT allows composers, artists, writers and every other creator to use the Internet to spread and/or reproduce their works, as well as to control their exploitation in the digital environment.

The WPPT protects the interests of performers and producers of phonograms whose performances and communications to the public are reproduced in phonograms.

Both treaties were adopted after a long process of negotiation in Geneva, and are generally known as the “WIPO Internet Treaties”. Both treaties complement each other and are the only international instruments that provide rules relating to the international protection of the intellectual property rights in the digital environment.

Contracting parties undertake to adopt, in accordance with their legal systems, the measures necessary to ensure that authors control the use of their works and receive due economic compensation, even when the publication of such works may be made through the Internet or other digital means. They shall ensure that enforcement procedures are available under their law so as to permit effective action against piracy.

Composers, writers, musicians, singers, artists, and any other creative person constitute one of the most important values of our society. Due to their talent and inventiveness, our cultural life becomes more fruitful every day. In response to such contributions, governments must offer to them legal protection and encouragement to stimulate their creativity. The fact that Argentina has ratified the WIPO Internet Treaties constitutes a relevant advance for our cultural and legal systems, that may serve as an example for those countries which have not yet ratified these treaties.