A visitor interacts with a volunteer at Soul International Book Fair.

To foster international collaboration in the field of copyright and showcase the UAE’s expertise in safeguarding the rights of writers and publishers, the Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA), the first-of-its-kind copyright management association licensed in the UAE, is taking part in the Seoul International Book Fair.

Through its participating pavilion, Sharjah is being highlighted as the guest of honour at this year’s edition of this prominent event until 18 June in the vibrant South Korean capital.

As part of this participation, the ERRA endeavours to amplify its international presence within international cultural forums, engaging with like-minded individuals and organisations committed to global copyright protection.

By nurturing meaningful collaborations and staying abreast of the latest trends and practices in the field, the association aspires to fulfill its strategic objectives in consolidating the UAE’s leadership role in safeguarding copyright and reprographic rights.

The ERRA is also organising a thought-provoking dialogue session titled ‘Preserving Copyright - The Emirati Experience,’  featuring esteemed writers Sultan Al Ameemi and Hazza Abu Al-Rish; publisher Rashid Al Rahmani; and Majd Al Shehhi, director of the ERRA.

This insightful session will shed light on the pioneering initiatives undertaken by the United Arab Emirates in copyright and reprographic rights protection, garnering regionally and internationally.

Al-Shehhi said: “The establishment of the ERRA marked a significant milestone in strengthening the UAE’s regional leadership in cultivating a thriving ecosystem for creative industries while prioritising safeguarding publishers’ and authors’ rights. As the first-of-its-kind copyright management association dedicated to protecting copyrights of printed and digital works from the Arab world, the ERRA has demonstrated its commitment to promoting a conducive environment for creativity.

"By participating in this exhibition and hosting a dialogue session, we can  exchange experiences, draw inspiration from diverse perspectives, and showcase the Emirati influence on the copyright field to a broader global audience.”

Al Shehhi highlighted the ERRA’s commitment to embracing the finest international mechanisms and practices in safeguarding literary works and the rights of their owners. As part of this commitment, the association will meet with copyright management organisations in South Korea and visit university libraries to gain insights into their copyright procedures.

Furthermore, discussions will take place to explore the potential for a bilateral agreement, aiming to foster enhanced collaboration between the two countries reprographic rights management and the preservation of author and publisher rights.