26 years after Law 65-00: The Dominican creative sector seeks to update itself in the face of digital challenges
On the occasion of the 26th anniversary of Law 65-00 on Copyright, key figures from the Dominican creative industry gathered at a meeting to evaluate the impact of this regulation and outline a roadmap for new technological realities. The event was attended by José Rubén Gonell Cosme, director of the National Copyright Office (ONDA), along with artists Kinito Méndez and Pochy Familia, who led the dialogue on institutional progress and pending challenges.
Since its enactment in the year 2000, this legislation has been the cornerstone for protecting literary, artistic, and scientific works, as well as software and digital creations in the country. According to the director of ONDA, the law not only provided the State with a legal framework to defend intangible assets, but it was also decisive for the Dominican Republic to improve its international reputation, managing to exit the United States’ 301 watch list and strengthening confidence for foreign investment.
This law marked a turning point in the respect for copyright. It provided us with the necessary legal framework to defend what, more than two decades ago, many Dominicans were just beginning to understand as a valuable asset.
José Rubén Gonell Cosme, Director of ONDA
Achievements and social welfare
During the day, the evolution of collective management entities, such as Sgacedom, CEDODERE, SODINAVI, and other specialized organizations, was highlighted. For Pochy Familia, the greatest triumph of this system is the direct impact on the quality of life of creators.
- Social protection: Currently, artists and authors have access to health insurance, funeral plans, and life insurance.
- Royalty distribution: Periodic mechanisms have been established for payment for the use of works in radio, television, hotels, and restaurants.
- Institutional consolidation: The sector has achieved greater cohesion, including the creation of specialized master’s degrees and joint management bodies.
The challenge of modernization
Despite the advances, the consensus is clear: the industry has changed and the law must evolve with it. The main challenge lies in adapting the legal framework to new forms of consumption, such as streaming, digital platforms, and, especially, artificial intelligence.
In this regard, the creation of a special commission was announced that will seek to approach the National Congress to propose the necessary adjustments. Among the priority issues is the effective implementation of the “private copy” compensation, a mechanism that awaits the approval of the Executive Branch to ensure that authors receive fair remuneration for the storage of their works on electronic devices.
Regarding artificial intelligence, Gonell warned that the problem is of a global scale, as the dizzying development of this technology currently exceeds any existing regulatory framework. However, the sector remains committed to staying at the forefront, working hand-in-hand with the Dominican business community to ensure that copyright continues to be an engine of economic dynamism and creativity for the country.
