EU copyright: Consultation on AI, research and innovation

The European Commission is seeking feedback on possible changes to the EU copyright framework. The targeted consultation focuses on the use of copyright-protected content in generative artificial intelligence (AI), research and other areas. It aims to strengthen the competitiveness of Europe’s cultural and creative sectors and facilitate research and innovation. Interested stakeholders can contribute until 3 November 2026.

Technological developments are changing how protected content is created, used and distributed. The European Commission therefore wants to identify where action may be needed and which policy measures could be appropriate. The feedback will inform the preparation of an initiative for a better copyright environment for European creativity and innovation.

Copyright and generative AI: What rules are needed?

The consultation covers four main areas:

• Copyright and generative AI: The use of protected content, licensing and enforcement of rights, and AI-generated imitations of performers.
• Copyright and research: Challenges relating to the use of copyright-protected content for scientific purposes.
• Online piracy: The protection of time-sensitive content, particularly live events.
• Sound recordings from non-EU countries: The use in the European Union of sound recordings by nationals of non-EU countries.

The options presented are intended to gather feedback on possible approaches. Their inclusion does not imply that any particular measures have already been chosen.

Share experiences from research and business

The consultation invites contributions from research organisations, rights holders, generative AI providers, other actors in the AI value chain, collective management organisations and public authorities, among others. For universities, research organisations and innovative businesses in Bavaria, it offers an opportunity to share practical experiences and challenges in using protected content and contribute to the European debate.

Contribute by 3 November 2026

Participants can focus their responses on the topics relevant to them and skip individual questions. Only the identification section is mandatory. Supporting documents, such as data, evidence or technical explanations, can also be uploaded. Confidential documents should be clearly marked.

The consultation remains open until the end of the day on 3 November 2026.

Take part in the European Commission’s consultation

Dr. Alexander Christian Widmann
Team Coordinator and Scientific Officer Social Sciences and Humanities | Security and Defence Research 
Phone: +49 89 9901888-162
Email: widmann@no-spam-pleasebayfor.org