Term of protection for sound recordings and performers' rights

This is currently set at 50 years, and is harmonized throughout Europe. In July 2009 the European Commission published a draft directive External Link which proposes to extend copyright term for sound recordings and performers from 50 to 95 years. Subsequently, the European Parliament has approved a text External Link which puts the term at 70 years, but this must also be approved by EU Member States before it can become law.