Upphovsrättslag

Upphovsrättslag refers to the copyright law in Sweden. It protects the rights of creators over their original works of authorship. These works can include literary, artistic, and scientific creations. The purpose of copyright law is to grant creators exclusive rights to control how their works are used, reproduced, and distributed.

In Sweden, copyright protection arises automatically upon the creation of an original work. There is no requirement for registration. The duration of copyright protection is generally for the life of the author plus 70 years after their death. For certain types of works, such as photographic works or performances, the duration may differ.

The law outlines specific rights granted to copyright holders, including the right to make copies of the work, to make it available to the public, and to create derivative works. These rights allow creators to benefit financially from their creations and to maintain control over their artistic integrity.

However, the Upphovsrättslag also includes provisions for exceptions and limitations. These allow for certain uses of copyrighted material without permission from the rights holder, such as for private copying, quotation, or educational purposes. These exceptions aim to balance the rights of creators with the public interest in accessing and using creative works. Infringement of copyright can lead to legal consequences, including civil and criminal penalties. The Swedish Patent and Registration Office (Patent- och registreringsverket) provides guidance on copyright matters.