The International Authors Forum (IAF) is a global coalition representing over 700,000 authors worldwide, advocating for their rights and interests at national and international levels, including within the European Union (EU) institutions. Established as a key voice for authors, the IAF engages in lobbying activities aimed at shaping EU policies related to copyright, intellectual property rights, and authors’ remuneration. The forum collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure that authors receive fair treatment and adequate compensation in the evolving digital and publishing landscapes.
Registered in the EU Transparency Register, the IAF operates under the mandatory transparency framework introduced by the Interinstitutional Agreement of May 20, 2021, which requires organizations engaging in lobbying to disclose their activities, financial expenditures, and affiliations to promote openness in EU policy-making. The IAF’s lobbying efforts focus primarily on copyright reform, authors’ rights protection, and promoting sustainable creative industries. The forum works closely with EU institutions such as the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the Council of the European Union, participating in consultations, hearings, and expert groups.
The IAF’s approach includes organizing events, contributing to policy consultations, and forming strategic alliances with other authors’ organizations and cultural bodies to amplify their collective voice. Their advocacy extends to ensuring that legislative proposals consider the interests of authors in the digital age, including fair remuneration models and protection against copyright infringement. The forum also monitors developments in EU copyright directives and related policies, providing expertise and position papers to influence decision-making.
Financially, the IAF declares its lobbying expenditures annually as required by the Transparency Register, reflecting its commitment to transparency and accountability. The forum’s networking includes affiliations with other international authors’ organizations, unions, and cultural advocacy groups, enhancing its influence and outreach within the EU policy environment.
Overall, the International Authors Forum stands as a prominent lobbying entity within the EU, dedicated to safeguarding authors’ rights and ensuring their voices are heard in legislative processes that impact the creative sector.