Media Industry Raises Concerns Over Draft Law on Artificial Intelligence

Representatives of the media industry have expressed concerns about a draft law on the regulation of artificial intelligence, highlighting potential risks for copyright protection and the development of creative sectors. An official appeal was submitted to Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko by the Russian Book Union, the National Federation of the Music Industry, the Association of Animation Film, and the Soyuzmultfilm studio.

According to the signatories, the current version of the draft law does not adequately reflect existing legal frameworks and business practices in the field of intellectual property licensing. Certain provisions may lead to a situation where works created through human creativity are granted the same legal status as fully AI-generated content.

Particular concern has been raised regarding the use of copyrighted materials for training artificial intelligence systems. Industry representatives argue that such use should be legally recognized as a form of exploitation of intellectual property and therefore require authorization from rights holders.

The appeal also emphasizes that unrestricted use of publicly available online content for AI training could negatively affect the creative economy, reduce incentives for producing original works, and disrupt the balance between technological advancement and the protection of authors’ rights.

A representative of Soyuzmultfilm noted that while artificial intelligence is already being integrated into routine production processes, the human creator must remain at the center of the creative process. In this context, AI should be viewed as a tool that enhances the work of artists, directors, and writers, rather than replacing human creativity.

The Association of Animation Film supports further discussion of the draft law with active participation from representatives of the creative industries. Effective regulation of artificial intelligence should take into account the interests of rights holders, preserve the value of human creative contribution, and ensure fair conditions for the development of animation, film, music, publishing, and other cultural sectors.