Copyright and creativity: Why Sri Lanka must embrace global standards

SRI Lanka exists within the global community, not apart from it. Yet, in public discourse surrounding law, technology, governance, and culture, a recurring theme persists: the belief that Sri Lanka is somehow exceptional, requiring uniquely local solutions. While national context is important, this mindset often overlooks a critical reality: we operate within an interconnected world governed by international norms. Nowhere is this more evident than in the realm of copyright law, particularly in music.

- By Eng. Janaka Seneviratne

Legal status of copyright law in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s legal framework for copyright is principally established under the Copyright Act No. 36 of 2003. This legislation defines the extent of copyright protection, and the rights granted to creators. It is designed to be consistent with international norms, ensuring Sri Lanka’s adherence to global copyright treaties and conventions. The Act offers broad protection for a variety of creative works, including literary, musical, artistic, and software-related content, thereby covering a diverse range of intellectual property.

The copyright conundrum in Sri Lanka

As both an engineer and a lyricist, I have navigated the complexities of Sri Lankan copyright firsthand. Collaborating with fellow artists has revealed a widespread misunderstanding of copyright law, its local application and its international framework. Too often, debates are shaped by personal grievances and anecdotal outcomes rather than a clear grasp of legal principles. The public adores singers who entertain them immensely. Singers use this to their advantage to build a legally indefensible demand in front of law and policy makers using public as shield. In social media, various artists started spreading their interpretation of copyright law and the gullible public, who have no knowledge of copyright law or global standards, and who only experience the product, which is the song delivered by the singer, started believing the interpretations are true.