Factors influencing Iran’s Accession to International Copyright Treaties: Enablers and Obstacles

Document Type : Research َ Article

Authors

1 Faculty of Humanities, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Professor, Faculty of Humanities, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Department of Educational Science, Yadegar-e-Imam Khomeini (RAH) Shar-e Rey Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

4 f.babalhavaeji@gmail.com

5 Associate Professor, Faculty of Humanities, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Purpose: This research seeks to determine the factors that affect Iran's participation in international copyright treaties. Such participation is considered crucial for effective interaction with global markets, due to the significant role of copyright in safeguarding intellectual creations and promoting the growth of creative industries.
Method: This research is applied in nature and utilizes a qualitative methodology. The approach is meta-synthesis, which facilitates thorough and systematic examination of qualitative texts, enabling the amalgamation of existing findings, the extraction of essential concepts and underlying patterns, and the formulation of new insights derived from prior studies. The data sources for this research encompassed scholarly articles, theses, books, and other pertinent research materials in both Persian and non-Persian languages. From an initial collection of 4,937 academic records, a screening process was implemented based on criteria including duplication, absence of full-text access, and irrelevance to research inquiry. In the end, 51 sources were chosen as the final sample for in-depth analysis. Considering the intricacy of the subject matter and the variety of sources, meta-synthesis was recognized as the most appropriate method for a thorough analysis.
Findings: The analysis revealed that four dimensions—economic(4 enablers, 4 obstacles factors), cultural (6 enablers, 3 obstacles factors), political (2 enablers, 5 obstacles factors), and legal (8 enablers, 2 obstacles factors)— are essential in the accession process.Within the economic dimension, issues like Iran's minimal participation in the global market and a lack of adherence to economic mechanisms were noted, while the enhancement of trade infrastructure was recognized as a enablers element. In terms of culture, the frailty of the publishing sector was identified as a significant obstacle, although the improvement of management infrastructure could open up new avenues. From a political standpoint, economic sanctions and certain overarching governance perspectives presented major challenges; however, bolstering international credibility could serve as an incentive for accession. Legally, shortcomings in the Berne Convention and structural difficulties were considerable barriers, yet the adaptability of treaties for developing nations might facilitate the accession process.
Conclusion: Accession to international copyright treaties is shaped by various economic, cultural, political, and legal factors. While the growth and enhancement of creative industries without such accession—essential for effective engagement with global markets and the exchange of ideas—encounters significant obstacles, it is crucial to bolster the relevant infrastructures across all dimensions prior to any decision-making. Iran's entry into these treaties would not only protect the legal rights of creators but also enhance international collaboration, draw investment into creative sectors, and promote sustainable economic development. Furthermore, it could improve global confidence in Iran's legal and economic frameworks and raise the nation's profile in international contexts. Consequently, the implementation of comprehensive and forward-thinking policies regarding accession is deemed an essential requirement.

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 15 August 2025
  • Receive Date: 28 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 01 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 15 August 2025
  • Publish Date: 15 August 2025