European citizens subscribed to services such as Netflix, providing access to music, games, movies, and sports events on-line, should soon have access in all of Europe. The Committee on Legal Affairs of the European Parliament unanimously approved Tuesday a report with new rules in relation to the matter. Until now, the layout of services with on-line content protected by copyright was generally characterized by territorial and exclusive license practices which hampered trans-border use within the EU.
For example, someone subscribed to a service such as Netflix in Belgium was often unable to access all of the content available at home when she or he was in another EU country, which will no longer be the case. When registering with a verifiable fixed address within the Union for an on-line service, individuals will have access to the content offered regardless of the internet service provider and location within the EU.
Parliamentarians also voted in favour of establishing control mechanisms for verifying Member State residence in order to avoid infringement.
Liaison person Jean-Marie Cavada (of ADLE) will establish negotiations with the Committee in order to reach an agreement on the proposed legislation.
(Source: Belga)
