The Gambian Parliament, on Monday, 14th September 2026, ratified the Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances (2012).
Tabling the motion for its ratification, Justice Minister Dawda A. Jallow explained that “the treaty strengthens protection afforded to performances in audiovisual works, including actors, musicians, dancers, and other artists whose performances are incorporated in films, television programs, and other audiovisual productions.”
“It recognizes the economic and moral interests and provides a modern international framework for the protection of those rights,” he said.
He also stated that the ratification will support “the development of Gambia’s creative sector, better protect Gambian performers, and demonstrate our continued commitment to international standards in the field of intellectual property.” He thus moved and urged that the Assembly members support the adoption.
Seconding the motion, Hon. Alhagie Babou Ceesay, Member for Sabach Sanjal, said, “Having the understanding that this would definitely help our local content creators, it will also help local artists to make some of their content economically viable, and will really help to create more jobs for those working in such an industry.”
Hon. Sheriff Sarr, Member for Jeshwang, said that though the motion is apt and significant, its tabling is long overdue, adding that it took 14 years for the motion to be tabled for ratification. He added, “So if the copyright law comes on board, it will definitely help our youth who want to venture into this as a career. We definitely welcome the idea and also support making it possible.”
Member for Foni Bintang Karanai, Hon. Bakary Badgie, said that though the motion is crucial, the legislature should ratify treaties that are in the interest of The Gambia. He supported the ratification, justifying that recently they have seen Chinese institutions engaging “our people, especially media persons and influencers, training them on a lot of things.”
Member for Bundung-Ka Kunda, Hon. Sulayman Jammeh, added that the motion is very important, as it is more about protecting people in the audiovisual and film industries. “We have so many artists who are working properly there. And the beauty of this is that it will, in fact, enhance their income,” he said.
Hon. Musa Cham, Member for Serrekunda, sought clarification on who enforces those rights and whether the treaty is compatible with the national laws of The Gambia.
Response to Issues Raised
Justice Minister Jallow replied to the lawmakers that state parties enforce their rights, adding that there is always a secretariat where these treaties are lodged and parties are expected to perform their obligations and demand enforcement of their rights.
“So it will be enforced. It will benefit Gambians in many, many ways. Our artists, whose works are usually in audiovisual forms, will be accorded some form of protection,” he said.
He added that it will also have benefits, as their work will be able to generate revenues both locally and internationally.
