Improving Accessibility to Copyright Works for Persons with Print Disabilities in Australia and Singapore

Abstract

Substantial time has passed since countries including Australia and Singapore have ratified the Marrakesh Treaty. In this article, we examine the copyright legislation in both countries and identify gaps as well as areas for reform in each country, so as to improve the access of persons with print disabilities to copyright works. What intermediary organisations assisting such persons in both countries have been doing is considered, in order to assess the realities individuals with print disabilities face in trying to access copyright material. In addition to implementing legislation to accommodate persons with print disabilities, we argue that a variety of approaches including adopting available technologies and forging an inclusive culture will be needed so as to constitute an effective longer term strategy to improve accessibility for such persons.

A Critical Analysis of China’ s Implementation of the Marrakesh Treaty

“…[17] The reason for choosing a national library as the leading authorised entity is attributed to their adequate resources, manpower, and overall control. [18] Generally, cause with little profit space and public welfare nature often need to give more inputs of manpower and resources. A concept of 'philanthropic insufficiency' can offer some inspiration, that is, non-profit organizations tend to have a limited perspective because they cannot start from the overall social situation when serving a specific group.…”

“…It is widely recognised in modern society that the general exception to copyright infringement for VIPs should be extended to digital distribution, otherwise it might lead to their disenfranchisement of them. [40] However, TPMs, as a measure of protecting exclusive rights, may hinder the application of traditional fair use.…”