The UK government’s proposed AI copyright reform is facing strong opposition from both legal experts and academics. The plan, which would allow AI companies to use copyrighted works without explicit permission unless creators opt out, is being criticized for potentially violating international agreements such as the Berne Convention and WTO regulations. Legal analysts warn that this could lead to lawsuits and economic repercussions, as weakening copyright protections benefits large tech corporations at the expense of individual creators.
In addition to legal concerns, academics from Oxford University have also raised alarms about the long-term impact on the creative industry. They argue that unrestricted AI access to copyrighted materials could undermine the economic foundation of creative professionals. Instead of allowing AI companies unrestricted use, they propose developing curated datasets and licensing agreements that balance AI innovation with fair compensation for creators.
The ongoing debate highlights the tension between AI-driven technological advancements and the need to protect human creativity and intellectual property. As the UK government reviews public feedback, the outcome of this reform could set a precedent for AI-related copyright laws globally.