Current status: Closed
In 2021, the Government of Canada launched a consultation on Canada's copyright framework to gather Canadians' insights on how to adapt it for the digital age. This was the Consultation on a Modern Copyright Framework for Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things.
Since then, the rapid development of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools has captured the world's attention and reaffirmed the need to reconsider some of the issues studied. While these new tools offer significant promise, there are also potential risks and impacts that should be appropriately considered, including in the context of protecting the rights of creators through Canada's copyright framework.
That is why the government felt it was time to ask Canadians their thoughts on Canada's copyright framework and AI technology again.
Consultation purpose
The government continues working toward amending the Copyright Act for the benefit of all Canadians.
The consultation focused on the impacts of recent developments in AI on the creative industries and the economic impacts that these technologies have, or could have, on Canadians, and it looked at whether change is required to further improve or reinforce copyright policy for a modern, evolving Canadian economy.
Stakeholder feedback will inform the government's policy development process.
Who we are consulting
The government welcomes the perspectives of all Canadians interested in matters related to copyright and AI.
Canadians were invited to submit their feedback through an online questionnaire. The consultation also involved roundtables with a diverse group of stakeholders with expertise and experience in this area, including those involved in the creative industries and in AI development.
Discussion document
The key elements for discussion during this consultation process are outlined in the consultation paper entitled Consultation paper: Consultation on Copyright in the Age of Generative Artificial Intelligence.
Submissions
The public consultation period closed on January 15, 2024.
Report
The Government released a report that summarizes the feedback received both through the written submissions and during the roundtables.
Next steps
The Government continues to consider how Canadian concerns posed by generative AI, including those raised by cultural and technology industries, may be addressed in the copyright framework or through other means.
Contact us
If you have any questions or require assistance regarding this consultation, please contact us by email at copyrightconsultations-consultationsdroitdauteur@ised-isde.gc.ca.