№ 3 / 2025

ISSN (Print) 2308-0361
ISSN (Online) 2519-2744

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33731/32025.338632

Submitted     2025-08-01
Accepted      2025-08-18
Published      2025-09-15

Cross-Border Challenges in the Implementation of Articles 15 and 17 of Directive (EU) 2019/790 on Copyright and Related Rights in the Digital Single Market by Member States

Nadiia Fedorova
PhD (Law),
Academic Secretary at the Intellectual Property Scientific Research Institute of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine
Ukraine
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5490-1259

Abstract
This article provides a thorough analysis of Directive (EU) 2019/790 regarding copyright in the Digital Single Market. It focuses on the practical implementation of this directive within the legal systems of EU member states. Key provisions are examined, particularly Articles 15 and 17, which address the rights of press publishers and the liability of online platforms regarding copyright and related rights. Despite a single regulatory framework, the implementation of these articles in national legislation is characterized by significant differences. These differences lead to fragmentation in law enforcement and create cross-border barriers to the functioning of digital services.

The paper provides a detailed analysis of how Member States introduce additional requirements beyond those provided for in the Directive and the impact of this practice on the coherence of the EU legal space. It provides examples of countries where differences in protection duration, licensing mechanisms, technical requirements, and procedural safeguards have led to legal uncertainty and increased operating costs for international platforms. The paper emphasizes that such differences exacerbate regulatory asymmetry, complicating the achievement of the Digital Single Market’s strategic goal.

The author argues that deeper harmonization of law enforcement practices is necessary for the effective functioning of the EU digital environment, particularly with respect to the cross-border application of Articles 15 and 17. The author proposes strengthening the European Commission’s coordinating role, introducing unified methodological recommendations, and considering adopting secondary legislation capable of eliminating existing fragmentation. This approach maintains a balance between protecting intellectual property rights, user interests, and freedom of expression while strengthening the competitiveness of the European digital space.

Keywords: copyright, related rights, digital single market, European Union

References

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Повідомлення Комісії до Європейського Парламенту, Ради, Європейського економічного і соціального комітету та Комітету регіонів. Керівництво щодо застосування статті 17 Директиви (ЄС) 2019/790 про авторське право та суміжні права на Єдиному цифровому ринку: COM(2021) від 04.06.2021.
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