Who runs the policy? A comparative analysis of new lobbying opportunities in global policymaking on digital copyright

Policymaking involves a variety of participants. In the copyright policy area which has traditionally been considered as a complex one, the technical, legal and sector-specific knowledge provided by a variety of experts and stakeholders has always been much valued by policymakers. The paper investigates global policymaking on copyright in the context of new technological breakthroughs (e.g. blockchain technology, metaverse reality, or AI), looking at international fora which traditionally deal with (specific dimensions of) copyright policy, namely the WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) and the WTO (World Trade Organization). Based on their recent global policy initiatives on digital copyright, the paper explores differences and convergences among institutional approaches. A special focus is given to who are among most active participants. We trace the development of the policies on online copyright by focusing on the current public debate, meeting agendas, and official policy documents of the two institutions. By analysing policymaking in these institutions, the paper sheds light on how different stakeholders participate in developing policies to address global challenges. We argue that the new policy on digital copyright is on the rise and takes place in new institutional venues. We also argue that despite new lobbying opportunities, as well as new (powerful) actors occur, there is mixed actors’ (stakeholders and experts) participation, and that actual participatory opportunities and dimensions still depend on the institutional framework of the organisations.