Copyright Protection
"How is copyright protected in Turkey?"
Quick Answer
Copyright arises automatically upon creation. Registration is not required but provides evidence. Protection lasts author's lifetime plus 70 years.
Copyright Protection in Turkey (Law No. 5846)
Copyright in Turkey is primarily governed by the Law on Intellectual and Artistic Works No. 5846 (FSEK), which protects original works automatically upon creation and provides civil and criminal remedies against infringement.
Key Points to Remember
- Copyright protection arises automatically for original works; no registration is required.
- Authors have moral rights and economic rights; licensing/assignments should be in writing and clearly define scope, territory, duration, and permitted uses.
- Common disputes involve software, marketing content, designs/visual works, photography, and unauthorized online use.
- Enforcement may include injunctions, takedown requests, evidence preservation, damages claims, and (in some cases) criminal complaints.
Strategic Considerations
Because copyright arises automatically, the practical focus is on ownership and evidence. Businesses should use clear written agreements (assignment/licence), keep creation records (drafts, source files, timestamps), and implement internal policies for employee/contractor works. In infringement cases, parties often rely on evidence preservation measures, injunctive relief, and damages claims under Law No. 5846.
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