Copyrights – University Business Linkage Cell

What is Copyright?

Copyright is a legal right granted to the creator of an original work, such as literature, music, art, software, and other creative expressions. This protection gives the creator exclusive rights to use, distribute, and profit from their work. Copyright covers the expression of ideas but not the ideas themselves.

Why is Copyright Important?

Exclusive Rights:

Copyright protects creators by granting them exclusive rights to their works, preventing unauthorized use or reproduction.

Control Over Use:

It ensures that creators can control how their work is used, including reproduction, distribution, and public display.

Economic Benefit:

By protecting the work, copyright allows creators to license, sell, or monetize their creations.

Recognition:

It helps to ensure creators are properly recognized for their original work.

In Sri Lanka, copyright protection is automatically granted upon the creation of an original work, and there is no formal filing mechanism for copyright registration. Instead, creators are encouraged to keep proper records and documentation of their work to prove ownership in case of disputes.

While registration is not mandatory, copyright owners can take legal action if their work is used without permission or infringed upon. Legal recourse allows creators to sue for damages and stop unauthorized use of their works.

International Copyright Protection

In addition to protection under Sri Lankan law, copyright holders can also protect their works internationally through various treaties and agreements. For instance:

USA:
In the United States, copyright protection is granted as soon as the work is created, and formal registration with the U.S. Copyright Office provides additional legal benefits, such as the ability to sue for statutory damages and attorney fees.

Berne Convention:
Sri Lanka is a member of the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, which ensures that copyright protection extends across all member countries, making it easier to enforce rights internationally.

How Can You Protect Your Work?

In Sri Lanka:
While there is no filing system for copyright in Sri Lanka, creators can protect their works by maintaining comprehensive records of creation and ownership (e.g., drafts, emails, contracts).

International Protection:
To enhance protection abroad, creators may consider registering their works in countries where they anticipate use or potential infringement (such as the USA or EU).

Available Options for Protection in the USA

Creators can easily register their copyright online with the U.S. Copyright Office, providing added protection and legal benefits. Registering your work ensures public notice, eligibility for statutory damages, and the ability to take legal action for infringement.

The Enterprise can assist you with the U.S. copyright registration process, guiding you through the online registration steps, helping you submit necessary documentation, and providing ongoing support throughout the process.

If you are seeking guidance on how to protect your intellectual property, including copyright, or if you need assistance with documentation or legal recourse, our Technology Transfer Office is here to help.

For more information and detailed support on your copyright matters, please email us: enterprise@uom.lk or visit Contact Us