BY NED GAGAHE
Solomon Islands must urgently raise awareness about its Copyright Act, 1987, according to Pita Niubalavu, an Intellectual Property Lawyer and expert in copyright law.
Niubalavu emphasized that many artists and associations in the country are unaware of the protections available under the law, leaving their rights vulnerable to infringement.
“The Copyright Act is in place and has been there for a long time. It empowers artists and police officers alike,” Niubalavu explained this the Island Sun asked him about his views on the way forward for Solomon Islands.
“However, many artists still believe that there’s no copyright law in the country. This is simply not true.”
Niubalavu pointed out that the Copyright Act of Solomon Islands is similar to the Copyright Act in Australia, offering artists a legal framework that protects their works from unauthorized use.
The law not only safeguards the rights of creators but also grants power to the courts to issue damages and injunctions in cases of infringement.
“Now, what we need to do is start raising awareness, not just among the artists, but also the public, including businesses, government departments, and entertainment venues,” Niubalavu said. “There needs to be more education on the fact that this law exists and that it directly benefits the creators.”
One concerning issue Niubalavu highlighted was that many businesses in Honiara, including shops, hotels, and even public offices, are using music without obtaining the proper licenses.
“This widespread practice of using music for free, without paying royalties to the artists, is a direct violation of the Copyright Act.
“I was shocked to learn that none of the shops or hotels in Honiara hold a license to use music. This means they are violating copyright law by using music without compensating the artists who created it,” Niubalavu said.
Niubalavu called for action to address this gap and ensure that businesses understand their responsibility to secure licenses for the music they play.
“It’s time for artists to organize themselves and advocate for the enforcement of this law,” he said.
“But awareness needs to spread across the country, especially to all government entities, businesses, radio and TV stations, and any other users of music. They must understand that without a license, their use of music is illegal.”
“The message is clear: Solomon Islands’ Copyright Act, 1987, provides essential protection for artists, but more effort is needed to ensure that everyone—from creators to music users—understands its significance.
With Niubalavu’s call for widespread awareness, the country has an opportunity to better support its artists and ensure that intellectual property rights are respected and enforced.
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