EU Copyright Directive Article 17
Article 17 makes large content-sharing platforms liable for copyrighted uploads unless they seek licences, block notified works and prevent re-uploads.
Platform duties
Best efforts to obtain authorisation, ensure notified works are unavailable, act expeditiously on notices and prevent future uploads.
Users
Quotation, criticism, parody and caricature are protected; platforms must offer complaint mechanisms against wrongful blocking.
In practice
In Europe a copyright notice can lead to "notice and stay down". Germany implemented it in a separate act.
General information, not legal advice. In real cases we work alongside lawyers who specialise in digital rights.
Frequently asked questions
Does it protect non-EU creators?
Yes, if the work is shared on a platform in the EU.