Internet Archive Backs Data Mining Exception in UK Copyright Law
Internet Archive Backs Data Mining Exception in UK Copyright Law
The Internet Archive strongly advocates for a broad text and data mining exception in UK copyright law, arguing that alternative approaches like opt-out mechanisms will hinder AI innovation and consolidate power among a few large publishers. By allowing rights holders to control access, these restrictions risk turning cultural heritage into a gated resource, preventing UK researchers and libraries from competing globally with jurisdictions that offer more permissive data access. This stance emphasizes that current proposals fail to meet national goals for unlocking datasets and fostering startup growth. Relevant to open data, this submission highlights the tension between proprietary control and the public interest. The organization warns that collective licensing and mandatory disclosures are impractical for massive datasets and could exclude smaller entities unable to afford licensing fees. Instead, they propose that copyright protections should remain focused on specific infringing outputs rather than blocking the initial mining of facts and information. This perspective supports the open data principle that raw information should remain freely accessible to drive scientific and technological advancement without unnecessary bureaucratic barriers. Ultimately, the argument challenges the notion that stricter copyright enforcement enhances creator rights. It suggests that limiting data access for training AI models primarily benefits established gatekeepers while stifling broader societal benefits derived from public-interest AI tools. The Internet Archive contends that legitimate web crawling and open data usage are essential for preserving cultural records and ensuring a navigable web. This debate underscores the critical importance of balanced regulations that support both innovation and the free flow of information.
Source: medianama.comPublished on 2025-03-06