Yesterday, January 6, 2023, the National Legal Internet Portal of the Republic of Belarus published “On Limitation of Exclusive Rights to Intellectual Property Objects”, essentially confirming the legalization of piracy in the country.
The corresponding law was adopted by the National Assembly at the end of last year, and on January 3, 2023, it was signed by President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko.
The law allows the use of computer software, games, film, music and television programs without the permission of copyright holders from countries that “commit unfriendly acts” against Belarus.
The document says that the decision was made “in order to ensure the functioning of the information and communication infrastructure, create conditions for digital development and increase the level of information security, develop the intellectual, spiritual and moral potential of society.”
The Law “On the limitation of exclusive rights to objects of intellectual property” will be in force for two years, until December 31, 2024. It enters into force 10 days after publication.
