AIE, AISGE, DAMA, SEDA, SGAE, and VEGAP, along with dozens of cultural associations and international organizations, support the Royal Decree on Artificial Intelligence promoted by the Ministry of Culture: A key step in protecting creators’ rights in the digital age

Madrid, December 23, 2024 – A broad coalition of cultural organizations and professionals, both national and international, has expressed strong support for the Royal Decree on Artificial Intelligence promoted by the Spanish Ministry of Culture and Sports, recognizing this initiative as a legal and strategic milestone for the future of the creative industry in the digital era.

The Royal Decree, aimed at balancing technological innovation with the protection of creators’ rights, has been hailed as a coherent response to the challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence in the cultural field. This regulation positions Spain as a global leader in defending intellectual property rights, ensuring that human creativity is not displaced by technological automation.

At a time when major tech powers are expanding their digital dominance without considering the cultural and ethical implications, the Spanish government has taken an exemplary stance, emphasizing the need to preserve human essence and cultural diversity against the unstoppable advance of machines.

The decree has garnered the support of leading European copyright organizations such as GESAC, AEPO-ARTIS, EVA, SAA, and the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), which collectively represent more than 5 million creators worldwide. These entities have praised the Spanish legislation for its ethical approach, highlighting the importance of ensuring that technology serves creativity rather than stripping it of its dignity.

The creative community defends intellectual property

This widespread support comes in the wake of growing concerns over the influence of large technology conglomerates, which have promoted a model based on AI-generated content—a development that could threaten the quality and authenticity of culture. “Do we want a culture without a soul? Should technological development come at the cost of losing human creativity?” the signatory organizations questioned in their statement of support.

Opponents of the decree argue that regulating technology could hinder innovation. However, cultural rights advocates maintain that respect for fundamental principles—such as copyright, image rights, personal data protection, and consumer rights—is not only compatible with progress but essential for ethical and sustainable development.

Spain leads a key European debate

By placing creators’ dignity at the core of AI legislation, Spain is taking the lead in the European debate on balancing technological progress with human rights. This initiative represents a decisive step toward ensuring that advances in Artificial Intelligence benefit both society and artists, while preserving creativity as a fundamental cultural value.

On behalf of authors, actors, musicians, screenwriters, directors, photographers, painters, and writers, the signatory organizations have reaffirmed their support for this Royal Decree, which stands as a beacon in the fight for a digital future that respects fundamental rights and promotes cultural sustainability.

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