Copyrights Law in Lesotho
Here’s a concise overview of copyright law in Lesotho:
📜 Copyright Law in Lesotho
Lesotho’s copyright regime is primarily governed by the Copyright Order 1999 (S.R.O. No. 16 of 1999), which is based on the Berne Convention principles and adapted for local use.
⚖️ Key Points
✅ What is Protected
Literary works (books, articles, poems)
Artistic works (paintings, drawings, photographs)
Musical works (songs, compositions)
Cinematographic films and broadcasts
Computer programs and software
Sound recordings
Architectural designs
🔐 Rights Granted
The copyright owner has exclusive rights to:
Reproduce the work
Issue copies to the public
Perform or broadcast the work publicly
Adapt or translate the work
📅 Duration of Protection
Author’s life + 50 years after death for literary, musical, and artistic works
50 years from the date of creation or publication for other categories (e.g., films, broadcasts)
🌍 Moral Rights
Protection of the author’s right to be credited
Right to object to derogatory treatment of the work
🛡️ Infringement Penalties
Civil remedies: injunctions, damages
Criminal sanctions: fines and/or imprisonment for serious violations
🌐 International Treaties
Lesotho is a party to several international treaties, including:
Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works
Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)
WIPO Copyright Treaty
📝 Registration
Copyright protection is automatic on creation; no formal registration is required
However, registration is available and can be used as evidence in legal disputes
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