Will the interpretation at your event be transmitted as a live stream, broadcast live or recorded? Then you need the interpreters' consent, as the copyright in the interpretation belongs to them.

The interpretation is a work in its own right

Copyright protects the creator of a work and ensures that they are paid when others use it. Protected works of language include not only texts, but also speeches, lectures – and interpretations.

The speaker is the creator of their speech. Under German copyright law, the interpretation is regarded as an adaptation of that speech and therefore as the interpreter's own intellectual creation. The interpreter therefore holds the copyright and exploitation rights in their interpretation.

Exploitation rights and rights of use

The exploitation right is the author's exclusive right to distribute, reproduce or publicly communicate their work. Like copyright itself, it cannot be transferred.

The author can, however, grant a right of use. It entitles the holder to use the work in the agreed manner and can be limited in terms of place, time or content. A simple right of use does not exclude other users; an exclusive right of use does.

Typical uses

• Live stream and live broadcast: the interpretation is transmitted in real time, for example at virtual and hybrid events or on television. Your event reaches an audience far beyond the hall.
• Recording: for later publication, for example on your website, for the intranet – for training sessions and town hall meetings – or for archiving. In market research, the interpretation of interviews is recorded for later evaluation.

Both uses are often combined.

What it costs

For granting the right of use, the interpreters receive a fee per day and interpreter in addition to the daily fee; for recordings it is called a recording fee. Half a daily fee is customary. The exact amount depends on the type of use. Please tell us when you enquire whether the interpretation will be streamed, broadcast or recorded. More on all costs under How much does an interpreter cost?

Questions about rights of use or a quote? Contact us.

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