An event was held in the European Parliament on Sept 7 to raise awareness among stakeholders and policy makers regarding piracy of live sports and entertainment content; organized by Geoffroy Didier, a Member of the European Parliament and CEO of the industry organization ACT (the Association of Commercial Television in Europe),
Mr. Didier also sent a letter to the European Commission to ensure its 2023 work program includes a legislative proposal to address piracy of live content, according to ACT, The Association of Commercial Television and Video on Demand Services in Europe.
“For years, European media, sports organisations and live event organisers have demonstrated to legislators the high levels of online piracy that negatively impact our services and the revenue flowing to legal services,” said a letter by ACT’s CEO.
“Despite unprecedented legal offers, piracy continues to be rampant online and costs our industries billions each year. Lost revenue impacts content development, professional and grassroots sports, other high end or amateur productions, as well as tax revenue. Piracy also harms consumers who are exposed to risks of malware, data loss, and inappropriate content – with no child protection.
“(ACT) urgently call(s) for a legislative instrument to tackle live content piracy. Live content – such as sports and entertainment – is unique in that the value of the rights is concentrated during the specific broadcast/stream. It is a matter of financial responsibility for the Union to demonstrate the protection of content, including live cultural and creative content that receives EU funding.”
Read the full letter “ACT CEO’s letter to Commissioner Breton on Piracy of Live Content”
Read the event agenda: “‘Piracy of Live Content’ in the European Parliament”
Why it matters
ACT is formed as a legal entity by the EU, and is essentially a lobbying organization, adting on behalf of companies that “finance, produce, promote and distribute content and services benefiting millions of Europeans across all platforms.”
It adds pressure for legislators to act on their behalf to protect their work.
