Copyright Term

The duration of the economic aspects of copyright is limited. In the case of literary works, international treaties prescribe a minimum term of 50 years after the death of the author. Many national jurisdictions and international treaties do however provide for a longer term of protection, e.g. 70 years in the European Union.

 

During this period, the copyright owner alone is entitled to reproduce, authorise or prevent the reproduction of, the copyrighted work - subject to limited exceptions: after all, copyright is a proprietary right.