Copyright treaty provides better access to works

Blind and visually impaired people across Europe will have greater access to published works following a decision by the European Court of Justice to ratify the Marrakesh Treaty.

Strongly supported by the European Coalition for Vision (ECV), the treaty creates copyright exceptions to allow government institutions and certain non-profit organisations to produce and distribute published works in alternative formats.

Chair of the ECV David Hewlett said: ‘This is a huge step forward in equality for partially sighted and blind Europeans, who will benefit from access to the same standard and range of works in alternative formats throughout the EU.’

The European Parliament is expected to vote on implementation of the treaty on March 22.