SwissAI calls for copyright protection for AI-generated content

The question of whether and under what conditions AI-generated content is protected by copyright is currently the subject of intense international debate. SwissAI, the association for artificial intelligence in Switzerland, sees this as a strategic opportunity: Switzerland can create legal certainty through clear and innovation-friendly regulations and position itself as a leading location for modern intellectual property.

Growing need for legal certainty

Generative AI is increasingly being used in the development of software, design, media content and communication. This creates a growing need for legal certainty. In several countries, including the USA and EU member states, authorities and courts are dealing with the question of whether and to what extent AI-supported works can be protected - especially if there is a clear human design intent through prompting, selection and iteration.

In swissAI's view, the current legal uncertainty is an obstacle to innovation and investment. Without protection, AI-generated content can be freely copied and reused by third parties, which significantly limits its commercial viability.

Switzerland called upon to be a pioneer

"Switzerland should seize the opportunity to lead the way as a pioneer and create a legal framework that protects AI-generated work," says Chris Beyeler, President of swissAI. "If every quick smartphone snapshot is protected today, there is no logical reason to rule this out across the board for AI. A clear regulation would be a massive locational advantage and would position Switzerland as a safe haven for modern intellectual property."

AI has become a central tool in modern creative and technological work. Like cameras, graphics software or word processing, it expands the creative possibilities of humans and has become an integral part of many innovation and production processes. The decisive factor is the creative performance of people who use, control and curate these tools in a targeted manner.

Dialog for innovation and legal certainty

SwissAI suggests that politicians, the administration and specialist circles jointly examine how the existing copyright law can be further developed or clarified in order to promote innovation and at the same time safeguard the rights of creatives. A clear positioning would sustainably strengthen Switzerland's attractiveness for companies, creatives and developers.

SwissAI, formerly "KImpact", is the non-profit association for artificial intelligence in German-speaking Switzerland. It was founded in 2023 and is committed to a constructive digital future for Switzerland - in harmony with people and technological progress. SwissAI promotes knowledge, dialog and responsible innovation in order to harness the opportunities of AI for society and the economy and to strengthen Switzerland as a sovereign and innovative AI location.