Kazakhstan Ratifies Marrakesh Treaty
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the law on Jan. 28 to ratify the Marrakesh Treaty, which facilitates access to published works for persons who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled, reported Akorda.
This ratification marks a significant step in advancing the rights of people with disabilities in Kazakhstan. It ensures equal access to knowledge, education, and culture, encouraging active participation in the country’s social and economic life. Over 90 countries have already ratified the treaty, fostering international exchange of adapted books and expanding opportunities for readers globally.
By adopting the Marrakesh Treaty, Kazakhstan reinforces its commitment to social inclusion and the protection of its citizens' rights. The move will create better educational, professional, and cultural opportunities for thousands of blind and visually impaired people in Kazakhstan.
Adopted by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2013, the treaty aims to eliminate legal obstacles preventing visually impaired individuals from accessing books and printed materials. It allows for significant exceptions to copyright, enabling the creation and distribution of books in accessible formats like Braille, audiobooks, and digital texts without needing prior permission from copyright holders.
