Navigating the Copyright Landscape: Iran's Journey towards Global Integration

Abstract

This study aims to explore the issues, factors, and outcomes of Iran's accession to international copyright treaties, offering practical recommendations. The research uses a qualitative approach with grounded theory methodology. Participants included experts and activists from various industries such as publishing, music, art, software, law, and cultural managers. Initially, three experts were selected, with more participants recruited through snowball sampling until saturation was achieved at 15 participants. Data was gathered through interviews, transcribed, and analyzed using MAXQDA software with coding techniques. A total of 234 codes relating to copyright treaties were identified, resulting in 123 concepts and 24 categories. Key aspects of Iran's accession include the risks of non-participation, obstacles to accession, infrastructure preparation, benefits of participation, and global cultural image enhancement. While initial costs may rise, long-term gains include increased investment, technology transfer, professionalization, WTO accession, global market presence, cultural industry growth, international relations influence, and enhanced cultural image. To mitigate short-term challenges, recommendations include infrastructure readiness, learning from others' experiences, and meeting accession prerequisites. Iran's accession to international copyright treaties is pivotal for the growth of its cultural and artistic sectors. However, given the prevailing sanctions, immediate participation could adversely impact this industry and curtail access to creative works. Consequently, a fundamental precondition for Iran's joining such treaties is granting an exemption from relevant international sanctions.

Keywords

• accession to international copyright treaties
• developing countries
• berne convention
• cultural industry
• publishing industry
• copyright
• iran