Copyright protects works of literature and art. It protects the expression and not the content of an idea. Thus, it is the concrete work in which an idea finds expression that is protected, not the idea itself.

For example, a scientific paper on Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity is protected as a literary work, but not the theory itself. Copyright automatically applies from the moment a creation comes into existence. There are no formalities or filings necessary. There is no copyright register.

Benefits: The copyright owner determines whether, when, and how their work will be used. 'Use' means, specifically, reproducing, distributing, making accessible (e.g. putting a work on the internet), performing and presenting, broadcasting and rebroadcasting and adapting (e.g. translating the work).
 

Further information

• Copyright