Danish Artists' Union and Danish Musicians' Union mount joint campaign for artists' AI rights

Both federations have reserved the members' rights concerning generative AI with all record companies operating on the Danish market. This means that rights for use in generative AI contexts will henceforth be collectively negotiated through the federations.

”AI training and generation are not just an extension of existing use of music and performances. It is a completely new form of exploitation, which raises crucial questions about rights, identity and earnings. Therefore, it must be handled collectively and on proper terms,” says Thomas Sandberg, from the Danish Musicians' Union.

Going forward, members who encounter contracts or addendums with AI regulation are urged to refer record companies and other parties to negotiate with Dansk Artist Forbund or Dansk Musiker Forbund.

The initiative does not alter members' ability to enter into other agreements or take on work, but questions regarding AI terms must be handled through the unions.

”External pressure is growing in step with technological development. That's why it's crucial that artists and musicians stand together right now. If we don't secure clear frameworks and fair payment from the outset, we risk the development outrunning artists” rights," says Sara Indrio, chair of the Danish Artist Union.

The Danish Artists' Union and the Danish Musicians' Union are now working with a targeted aim to establish a collective agreement model that will ensure transparent terms and proper remuneration for the use of music and artistic performances in generative AI.

As part of the efforts, the unions have strengthened the legal work through Performex, which has hired a specialised rights lawyer to assist in the upcoming negotiations and safeguard the members' interests.

If you have questions about this comprehensive topic, please contact Trine Jorst at Performex on trine@performex.dk or call +45 53 53 28 05