As the UK and EU finally signed a trade deal just before Christmas, what are the implications for UK writers?

The good news is that the majority of UK and EU copyright works (such as books, films and music) will still be protected in each other’s territories because of their participation in the international treaties on copyright. This applies to works made before and after 1 January 2021.

However, the news is much less straightforward when it comes to EU work and travel, where there are additional challenges for writers, broadcasters and collecting societies to overcome.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has produced some specific resources for the creative industries which you can read here.

The full text of the deal can be read here. Writers may be particularly interested in the following sections:

• Intellectual property page 125
• Broadcasting organisations pages 128-31
• Enforcement of intellectual property rights pages 139-147
• Visas for short-term visits page 260

WGGB is supporting the call for a Europe-wide visa-free work permit for touring professionals and artists. If you haven’t already done so, you can sign the petition here

If you encounter any specific work challenges as a result of Brexit, please contact admin@writersguild.org.uk

Photo: Shutterstock.com/Ivan Mar