Armenia Decides It Needs Incredibly Strict Copyright Laws
from the copy-and-go-to-jail dept
Over the years, tons of studies have suggested that strong intellectual property rights are especially damaging in poorer and developing nations. So it's always a bit of a surprise when we see such countries willing to adopt draconian copyright and patent laws. Via Michael Scott we learn that Armenia -- currently ranked 135th in the world in per capita income, is apparently preparing to put in place quite draconian copyright laws. A first offense for copyright infringement would get you fined $2,500. This in a country where the per capita GDP is somewhere between $3,350 and $5,900 depending on who you believe. Oh, and for your second copyright violation? You're facing twelve months in jail. I'd hate to find out what the "third strike" is. Of course, the BSA has estimated that 93% of software in Armenia infringes on copyrights, so basically everyone in the country who uses a computer may be close to facing a year in jail.Filed Under: armenia, copyright, copyright law
