Regional organisations demand stronger protections during CARIFESTA XV celebrations
Castries, Saint Lucia— 4 September 2025 – Caribbean creators are not receiving fair
compensation for their work, prompting regional copyright organisations to demand greater justice and stronger protections during this week’s CARIFESTA XV celebrations in Barbados.
The Association of Caribbean Copyright Societies (ACCS) highlighted the urgent need for reform during its annual meetings, coinciding with the Caribbean’s premier arts festival that brings together creators from across the region.
“Our creators are amongst the Caribbean’s greatest assets, yet too often they do not see a fair return for their work,” said Dr Erica K. Smith, CEO of COSCAP and ACCS Management Committee Chairperson.
“Copyright and collective management are about more than contracts and royalties—
they are about justice.”
The call for action came during a panel discussion titled “Creativity & Justice: The Role of
Copyright & Collective Management in the Future Development of the Caribbean Creative
Industries,” featuring regional and international copyright experts.
Regional Cooperation Key to Solutions
The ACCS—comprising copyright societies from Barbados (COSCAP), Trinidad and Tobago
(COTT), the Eastern Caribbean (ECCO), and Jamaica (JACAP)—identified transparency,stronger government policies, and regional cooperation as essential solutions.
Panellists included Ms Lydia Rose (JACAP), Mr Martin James (ECCO), Dr Erica K. Smith
(COSCAP), Mr Rafael Fariñas (CISAC Regional Director), and Mr Sydney Sanches (UBC Brazil; Vice President of CISAC Legal Committee).
“If we want our creative industries to grow and compete globally, we must ensure that creators are paid fairly, that rights are respected, and that our systems are transparent, efficient, and supported by strong policy,” Dr Smith emphasised.
“This is how creativity can truly drive sustainable development in our region.”
Whilst acknowledging regional challenges including mistrust, weak enforcement, and limited resources, speakers pointed to emerging solutions leveraging new technologies and increased regional cooperation.
The session concluded that building a fair and sustainable creative economy requires collaboration amongst creators, policymakers, businesses, journalists, and civil society across the Caribbean.
About CARIFESTA XV
CARIFESTA (Caribbean Festival of Arts) is the Caribbean’s premier cultural festival, held every two years to celebrate regional artistic excellence and cultural exchange.
About ACCS
The Association of Caribbean Copyright Societies (ACCS) unites the region’s collective
management organisations to protect creators’ rights and strengthen copyright administration across the Caribbean.
Media Contact:
Dr Erica K. Smith (COSCAP)
Email: erica@coscap.org
Phone: +1 (246) 266-3057
Mr. Martin A. James (ECCO)
Email: mjames@eccorights.com
Phone: +1 (758) 727-2899, +1 (758) 461-6436
