Latvia/ 5.1 General legislation  

5.1.7 Copyright provisions

The Constitution of the Republic of Latvia states that "The State shall recognise the freedom of scientific research, artistic and other creative activity, and shall protect copyright and patent rights".

The Copyright Law was adopted in 2000 and replaces the law that was adopted in 1993 On Copyright and Neighbouring Rights and it is fully harmonised with the EU acquis communataire.

The Criminal Law (1998/1999) in section 148 defines the applicable sentence for the infringement of Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (the translation does not include the latest amendments, see the law in Latvian). Also, the Latvian Administrative Violations Code sections 155.8, 204.4, sets the fines for unlawful acts in copyright and neighbouring rights and illegal film distribution.

The Law on Film (2010) defines the distribution and protection of audiovisual heritage.

Latvia is a member of several international treaties and the regulatory enactments of Latvia encompass legal provisions arising from the EU directives. See more at the Ministry of Culture.

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