e-Copyright system launched to protect intellectual property rights

On 23rd August 2017, the Access to Information (a2i) Programme of the Prime Minister's Office and the Bangladesh Copyright Office under the Ministry of Cultural Affairs jointly organised an inauguration ceremony for 'e-Copyright system' at the Prime Minister's Office. Minister for Cultural Affairs Mr. Asaduzzaman Noor, MP, inaugurated the e-Copyright System as the chief guest. Other guests included Secretary to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Mr. Md. Ibraheem Hosein Khan and Principal Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office Dr. Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury. The event was chaired by the Director General (Admin) of the Prime Minister's Office and the Project Director of a2i Programme Kabir Bin Anwar. The Bangladesh Copyright Office used a2i's Service Innovation Fund, launched with technical assistance from UNDP and USAID, to develop this "e-Copyright" system using which any individual or institution from anywhere in Bangladesh can now apply online for copyright of literature, drama, music, records, paintings, movies, radio programs, television programs, softwares, etc. They can access the online application form on the website (http://www.copyrightoffice.gov.bd/) of Bangladesh Copyright Office. Once the application is processed, the applicant shall receive an auto generated SMS mentioning date of delivery. e-certificate can also be requested which can be verified for authenticity.