How can I protect my works?

The protection of musical works is covered by the Copyright Act. This does not go through BumaStemra. When you create a work, that work is subject to copyright under the Copyright Act. This automatically protects your work free of charge. It’s not necessary, or possible, to apply to an authority for copyright protection or to register it publicly.

In some cases, it is wise to register your work to avoid any misunderstandings about creatorship. You can do this through a notary or lawyer or at the Benelux Office for Intellectual Property.

Don’t forget:

1. BumaStemra handles exploitation rights, not the protection of works
2. Registration with Buma can contribute as evidence before a judge, but this offers no guarantee

To find out more about music copyright, check out our page about Your Rights – BumaStemra.