eIFL-IP
Advocacy for Access to Information:
copyright & related issues

Following the presentation on copyright and related issues at the General Assembly in September 2004, eIFL.net is pleased to announce the launch of a new service, eIFL-IP. The goal of eIFL-IP is to build capacity and expertise amongst the eIFL.net library community to become active agents for change in intellectual property issues. eIFL-IP will work to protect and promote the interests of libraries in developing and transition countries in the digital age and to advocate to policy makers and politicians at national, regional and international levels.

The global trend is towards more protection, greater enforcement and new rights on information. Intellectual property is increasingly viewed as an asset to be traded where, in addition to the processes of the World Trade Organization, individual countries are signing bi-lateral trade agreements with powerful trading partners. This can result in very restrictive IP provisions which affect access to essential information, educational and learning materials and cultural resources.

The new opportunities of the information age are opening up to members of eIFL.net. In order to safeguard future library services, to help narrow the digital divide, empower citizens and encourage democratic values, librarians must be in a position to advocate for balance, proportionality, developmental awareness, transparency and fair access to information.

eIFL-IP will build on the eIFL's existing network to develop national and regional expertise in copyright issues for libraries, will pro-actively monitor the latest developments and will provide tools, resources and specialist advice. It will represent the interests of members in key international policy arenas and will create strategic partnerships with the international library community and a wide range of civil society organisations.

The Project Manager is Teresa Hackett, a librarian with expertise in legal information issues. This is an exciting new activity in a hugely important area of international debate which will bring new opportunities and benefits to eIFL.net members.