The Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA) conducted its third annual general assembly meeting as part of its participation in the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 (ADIBF). During this meeting, members assessed the association’s key achievements from 2024 and approved the proposed work plan and budget for 2025. This approval signifies ERRA’s ongoing commitment to transparency and the enhancement of institutional participation in shaping future directions.

ERRA’s presence at the fair underscores its dedication to establishing a strong presence at major cultural events and engaging with the publishing and creative sectors. The association aims to raise awareness about the significance of reprographic rights and intellectual property, especially amid the challenges posed by the digital environment and the growth of production and publishing tools.

Mohamed Bin Dakhen, President of the Board of ERRA, emphasized that holding the general assembly during the fair provides a strategic platform for evaluating performance and improving governance. He noted the importance of the fair as a venue for direct engagement with the public, stating, “The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is a leading national platform that brings together diverse stakeholders across the culture and creative sectors.”

In addition, Bin Dakhen expressed the association’s eagerness to utilize this global cultural event to introduce its services and membership mechanisms, highlighting the essential role of mandates in rights protection. He mentioned the opportunity to forge new partnerships that respond to the evolving digital publishing landscape while reinforcing ERRA’s commitment to safeguarding intellectual property rights.

Bin Dakhen further explained that ERRA’s participation is part of its mission to enhance public awareness of reprographic rights and to promote responsible content use. He highlighted the association’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with authors and publishers, expand membership scopes, and foster collaboration with educational institutions, libraries, and universities. This initiative aims to facilitate legal licensing of works while balancing fair use and rights protection.

Through its involvement in the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, ERRA aims to contribute to the establishment of a legal and cultural environment that respects intellectual property rights. This effort supports creators and their work, ultimately helping to grow the creative economy in the UAE and solidifying its status as a hub for innovation and creativity.