Copyright experts across the Caribbean warn that local artists and musicians may be at risk of exploitation by global tech companies training AI systems through the use of their creative works without compensation.
The issue came up during a panel discussion at CARIFESTA XV, where regional copyright stakeholders examined the potential of small developing countries to navigate creator protection and technological advancement.
“AI is not just a challenge; it’s an opportunity,” president of the Association of Caribbean Copyright Societies (ACCS), Stephen Stewart, said. “For the Caribbean, the task is to protect human creativity whilst leveraging AI for growth and cultural preservation.”
The ACCS examined Brazil’s draft AI Bill that requires AI developers to openly indicate which copyrighted works are being used in training systems.
During a keynote address, Sydney Sanches, legal consultant for UBC Brazil and Vice President of the CISAC Legal Committee, highlighted the bill’s full scope by aiming to redefine the global operations of AI companies through the introduction of:
– Regulatory oversight of AI use across creative industries
– Penalties for AI companies that incite any harm to creators
– Payment platforms to facilitate creator compensation when works are used to train AI systems
– Mandatory transparency from AI companies in the form of explanations of how their systems work
The bill is said to be one of the world’s most comprehensive attempts to protect creators from AI-related exploitation.
While Brazil’s approach is receiving praise, regional copyright experts say the legislation faces “expected resistance from major tech companies who argue that strict copyright requirements could stifle AI innovation and development”, according to a release from the ACCS.
Looking ahead, the ACCS – which represents collective management organisations across Barbados (COSCAP), Trinidad & Tobago (COTT), Eastern Caribbean (ECCO) and Jamaica (JACAP) – has indicated that member countries are studying Brazil’s legislative model for potential adaptation. However, no timeline for implementation has been provided.
The CARIFESTA panel, which was moderated by Dr Erica K. Smith (COSCAP), and featured Lydia Rose (JACAP), Martin James (ECCO), Rafael Fariñas (CISAC Regional Director), and Dr Antonio Alleyne (UWI Cave Hill), also explored the potential for Caribbean countries, with limited resources but strong culture and art landscapes, to adopt AI technologies in ways that protect artists’ intellectual property rights.
