Cybel Ekpa

Cybel Ekpa

  • Joined: February 21, 2023
  • Articles: 3

Research as a Human Right: Right to Research in International Copyright

[Cybel Ekpa] In PIJIP’s Right to Research video series, Professor Desmond Oriakhogba discussed the importance of the right to research in empowering citizens to participate in economic development, democratic processes, and personal problem-solving. While most ongoing research in Africa takes shape informally, there is a major challenge of access to information, which is a crucial ingredient for effective research. The problem is caused by copyright regimes in Africa, which are formulated in such a way as to limit access to information.

Video: Dr. Sanya Samtani on Research as a Human Right in International Copyright

In this, third video of PIJIP’S video series on the Right to Research in International Copyright Law, Dr. Sanya Samtani of the University of Pretoria discusses how access to knowledge in general and the right to research may be considered human rights in the context of international human rights instruments and the obligations of nation-states. Furthermore, she asserts that the state has a duty to respect research rights by making sure there are no unjustifiable limits on access, protecting research rights from third-party violations.

Video: PROF. SEAN FLYNN GIVES A CONCEPTUAL OVERVIEW OF RESEARCH AS A HUMAN RIGHT IN INTERNATIONAL COPYRIGHT

Interested in learning more about research as a human right? In this informative video, Professor Flynn gives a conceptual overview of research as a human right in international copyright.  Further, he sheds light on the human rights aspect of the right to research and how it differs from a type of exception to copyright.  He continues to flush out how human rights duties are imposed by the state to act or refrain from acting in certain ways. He uses censorship as an example of a state affirmative action that reduces people's access to their right to research.