Joint statement on the WIPO instrument on copyright limitations and exceptions for persons with print disabilities

19 NGOs, representing creators and rightholders from the creative industries in developing and developed countries around the world, have signed a joint statement on the WIPO instrument on copyright limitations and exceptions for persons with print disabilities. The statement sends a respectful call to WIPO Member States to subject their support for a possible international instrument on access for persons with print disabilities to essential conditions required in order to improve access to books for persons with print disabilities in harmony with and without prejudice to the existing international copyright framework.

Such instrument must have the following characteristics:

1. Consistent with international copyright law
2. Narrow in scope
3. Reaffirming the three-step test
4. Flexible
5. Conditional upon commercial unavailability
6. Ensuring appropriate care of digital files

The complete joint statement, co-signed by IFRRO and IFRRO members EWC, FEP, IFJ, IPA and STM, can be found here: (attachment)