Animation Industry Representatives Discuss Protecting Human Creativity in the Age of AI

On August 31, 2026, the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Protecting Human Creativity Amid the Development of Artificial Intelligence Technologies as a Foundation for Preserving Identity.”

Participants discussed the impact of artificial intelligence technologies on the development of creativity in Russia and possible regulatory mechanisms that would allow new technologies to advance without harming the creative industries. The discussion brought together representatives of government authorities, academia, culture, education, and the creative industries.

The animation industry was represented at the roundtable by Irina Mastusova, Executive Director of the Russian Animated Film Association; Boris Mashkovtsev, CEO of Soyuzmultfilm Film Studio and producer; and Natalia Sigacheva, Director of Legal Affairs at the Soyuzmultfilm Group of Companies.

The discussion focused on the role of creativity amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence, creators’ control over the results of their own creative work, transparency in the use of AI, and measures to encourage creative labor. Particular attention was paid to the use of creative works for training artificial intelligence technologies, as well as to generative content created with the use of AI.

The roundtable was organized by the Association of Lawyers of Russia and the Commission of the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation on Culture and the Preservation of Spiritual Heritage.

The event was held in person and brought together approximately 50 participants.