Entertainment Law at Greece
Greece's legal framework governing entertainment, particularly in the realms of intellectual property (IP) and media, is robust and aligned with international standards. The cornerstone of this framework is Law No. 2121/1993, which addresses copyright, related rights, and cultural matters. This law harmonizes Greek legislation with international treaties such as the Berne Convention, the Rome Convention, and the WIPO Copyright Treaty.
Key Provisions of Law No. 2121/1993:
Duration of Protection: Authors' rights are protected for the author's lifetime plus 70 years posthumously. In cases of joint authorship, this period is calculated from the death of the last surviving author.
Moral Rights: Authors retain the right to object to modifications of their work that could harm their honor or reputation. These rights are inalienable and continue after the author's death, passing to their heirs.
Economic Rights: Authors have exclusive rights to exploit their works commercially. Any transfer or licensing of these rights must be in writing; oral agreements are not legally binding.
Theatrical Performance Fees: Playwrights are entitled to a percentage of gross receipts from performances of their works, with minimum fees set at 22% for state theaters and 10% for private theaters.
Photographers' Rights: Photographers have specific rights regarding the publication and reproduction of their photographs, including the right to object to unauthorized uses and the right to be credited.
In 2024, Greece introduced Law 5105/2024, aiming to attract foreign investment and bolster the country's audiovisual sector. This legislation offers incentives for audiovisual productions, including tax relief and financial support, positioning Greece as an attractive location for international film and television projects.
Regarding media operations, Law No. 3592/2007 regulates the concentration and licensing of mass media enterprises. It mandates that television and radio station license holders register in the Copyright Record maintained by the National Council for Radio and Television (NCRTV) within three months of obtaining their license.
The gaming industry in Greece is primarily regulated by Law 4002/2011, which establishes the legal framework for the operation, management, supervision, and control of gaming activities. This law distinguishes between "amusement-skill games" and "games of chance," setting forth licensing requirements and penalties for non-compliance.
In December 2024, the Greek government unveiled a national strategy to protect minors from internet addiction and excessive social media use. This initiative includes enhanced parental controls, age verification measures, and collaboration with social media platforms to ensure children's well-being in the digital landscape.
Overall, Greece's entertainment law landscape is comprehensive, aligning with international norms to protect the rights of creators and regulate media and gaming industries effectively.
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