The Legislative Decree n. 22 (21st February, 2014) was published today on the Official Journal. This
decree implements the European Directive (2011/77 / EU), which extends the term
of protection of neighbouring rights for sound recordings from 50 to 70 years.
The extension only relates to sound recordings, and not to audio-visual works.
The Directive introduces accompanying measures
in cases where the performers have transferred their exclusive rights to record
companies. In the case of a transfer in return for a one-off payment, the
performer will have the right to obtain an annual supplementary remuneration
corresponding to 20% of the revenue which the record company has derived from
distribution, reproduction and making available of the music during the
extended term of protection (between the 50th and 70th years).
This right will be managed by collective
management organisations such as Itsright.