Creators demand immediate change from companies developing AI after 'unlawful use of content'

An open letter on the "unlawful use of creators’ content" for Artificial Intelligence (AI) models has been sent to companies working in software development by the Creators’ Rights Alliance (CRA). This has been signed by members including The Society of Authors (SoA), the Association of Author’s Agents, the Authors’ Licensing (ALCS) and Collecting Society and the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain.

The letter outlines that members of the CRA and the 500,000 creators they represent "do not authorise or otherwise grant permission for the use of any of their works protected by copyright and/or related rights (including performers rights) in relation to, without limitation, the training, development, or operation of AI models".

Companies should only use this data if they have "licensing arrangements" with the creators, the letter adds, citing UK law. Creators should also be compensated for the "copyright infringement" that the CRA claims has taken place to date, and the letter also adds that they should be credited or have the option to remove their work from AI platforms.

The CRA encourages creators to use the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court when alleged infringement has taken place, highlighting the small claims track option designed to support those running small business.

The Alliance also urges the new government to support the development of "The Smart Fund" – a proposal that would ensure creators are paid for the use of their work – and to take forward the recommendations outlined in the "Creator Remuneration Report", published by the Commons Committee in April. The report recommends that mechanisms should be put in place for creators to consent to and be compensated for the use of their data.

"Creators need to be consulted, give consent and be remunerated when their work is used to develop AI models," said Nicola Solomon, the chair of the CRA. "If we work together, we can create high quality robust systems that enhance the work of human creators and reward their creativity."

ALCS c.e.o. Barbara Hayes added: "The development of AI technologies has taken place using writers’ works without their permission, recognition or compensation. The development of AI must be guided by the principles of consent, remuneration and transparency. 

"We are currently consulting with our members on proposed licensing solutions that we hope will empower authors to choose how their works are used."

The full letter is available to read online.