ABBA’s Björn and EU Creators Demand Rights Protection in AI Legislation
Björn Ulvaeus, cofounder of ABBA and president of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), has joined forces with European creators to advocate for stronger protections within the European Union’s AI Act. Their focus is clear: creators must have transparency, consent, and fair remuneration in the growing generative AI market.
Concerns are rising among EU creators that the AI Act could allow AI companies to use their work without permission, potentially stripping creators of ownership rights. Björn, alongside artists like Marika, Alice Wonder, Patrick Sigwalt, and Brice Homes, is pushing to keep the legislation aligned with its original goal of fostering ethical, human-centered AI that supports and rewards creativity.
Protecting Creators’ Interests Amid AI Growth
Ulvaeus emphasized the need to avoid sacrificing creators’ rights in the rush to adopt new AI technologies. He pointed out that the tech sector’s AI profits largely depend on copyrighted works produced by humans. “The vision has to be a win-win for creators and the tech industry. That can only happen with legislation that truly and effectively safeguards creators,” he said.
Key Actions in the Campaign
- Meeting with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola to discuss urgent concerns about the AI Act’s potential impact.
- Delivering a keynote during the European Parliament Committee on Culture and Education’s Public Hearing, titled “Empowering Creators in the Age of AI.”
- Engaging with EU Commissioner for Culture Glenn Micallef to highlight creators' needs.
- Hosting an evening event at the European Parliament focused on the legislation and its effects on creators.
Longstanding Advocacy on AI and Creative Rights
Björn Ulvaeus has long supported new technologies — ABBA’s innovative London ABBA Voyage concerts are a prime example. However, he is vocal about the risks of AI use without proper legislation that respects and credits original creators.
With new AI applications emerging rapidly, including those showcased at the recent Google I/O event, the message from Ulvaeus and fellow creators is straightforward: creative content must remain under the control of its makers, and unauthorized use by AI companies is unacceptable.
For creators interested in learning how to protect and adapt their work in an AI-driven environment, exploring relevant courses can be valuable. Platforms like Complete AI Training offer resources tailored for creative professionals looking to stay informed and prepared.
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