-Cole rallies Liberia Intellectual Property Office staff, says no more business as usual
By Jerromie S. Walters
Clarence H. Cole, the Deputy Director General for Copyright at the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO), has set a new tone for the agency’s approach to copyright enforcement, says with a joint commitment, LIPO can curb copyright infringement and ensure that artists, authors, and creators receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.
With a resounding declaration of “IT MUST NOT, SHOULD NOT AND WILL NOT BE BUSINESS AS USUAL!”, Cole rallied the need for a more proactive and assertive stance in protecting the rights of creators and rights holders in the digital age.
In a statement during the official turnover ceremony at the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO) Headquarters on
On Monday, March 25, 2024, the LIPO Deputy Director for Copyright emphasized the need for adaptation to the rapidly evolving digital landscape and the importance of addressing emerging challenges while seizing new opportunities to benefit creators, rights holders, and users alike.
Cole: “As the Deputy Director for Copyright, I am committed to working tirelessly to protect the rights of creators and promote a culture of respect for intellectual property. Together, we can curb copyright infringement and ensure that artists, authors, and creators receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.”
Central to his vision is the heightening of dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders across the copyright ecosystem, ranging from authors and publishers to musicians, film producers, artists, photographers, software producers, and end users.
Clarence H. Cole has stepped into the role of Deputy Director General for Copyright at the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO) with gratitude to President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, for the trust placed in him. He outlined his commitment to protecting the rights of creators and promoting the cultural and economic significance of copyright in Liberian society.
Moreover, he highlighted the pivotal role of copyright in fostering creativity, preserving cultural heritage, and driving economic growth, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of creators and ensure their works are respected and rewarded.
Cole stressed that copyright serves as a foundation for the thriving creative industries and the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations. As he takes on the responsibilities of his new role, he pledged to uphold principles of fairness, equity, and balance in the administration and enforcement of copyright laws, with a focus on ensuring creators can enjoy their economic rights.
Acknowledging the significance of education and awareness around copyright issues, Cole underscored the importance of ensuring that both creators and users understand their rights and responsibilities in the digital era. Through the empowerment of individuals with knowledge and resources, he believes that a more informed and respectful copyright culture can be cultivated, one that nurtures creativity, innovation, and cultural diversity.
Highlighting the critical issue of copyright infringement, Cole referenced the detrimental impact of piracy and unauthorized use of intellectual property on artists, authors, filmmakers, and musicians who rely on their creative works for livelihood. He emphasized that copyright infringement poses a serious threat to the growth of creative industries, which are integral drivers of economic growth and job creation.
With this, Cole wants LIPO to prioritize the enforcement of copyright laws to safeguard the rights of creators and promote a thriving creative economy. He outlined a comprehensive strategy to combat copyright infringement and protect intellectual property rights in Liberia.
The Deputy Director General for Copyright at the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO) also recognized the need to raise public awareness about copyright laws and the consequences of infringement, as well as the importance of working with internet service providers, social media platforms, and technology companies to implement measures to curb online infringement.
Furthermore, Cole highlighted the crucial role of law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting infringement cases, along with the importance of collaborating with international partners to address cross-border infringement. He also emphasized the need to empower creators by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to protect their intellectual property rights.
As the Deputy Director for Copyright, Cole expressed his commitment to working tirelessly to protect the rights of creators and promote a culture of respect for intellectual property. He encouraged collaboration and dedication in upholding the integrity of copyright laws and ensuring that artists, authors, and creators receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.
Cole expressed optimism about the possibilities ahead and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation and commitment to excellence in safeguarding intellectual property rights and fostering a sustainable creative ecosystem for future generations.
Recognizing the efforts of his predecessors in overcoming challenges to establish and develop the Copyright Office, Cole emphasized the importance of building on their achievements while remaining mindful of future obstacles.
Clarence H. Cole was appointed by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai as the Deputy Director General for Copyright at the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO), on February 20, 2024. He replaces Mr. Clifford Robertson.
The office of the Deputy Director General for Copyright develops regulations covering copyright, acquires and assures the security of materials received through mandatory deposit, secures legal protection of databases; and conducts studies and programs regarding copyright amongst others related to intellectual property, and ensures the effective enforcement of the Liberia Intellectual Property Acts of 2016.
The Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO) is an Agency of Government under the Executive Branch, responsible for developing and promoting IP policies including the protection of rights deriving from Intellectual activity. LIPO was established by an act of 2014, as a semi-autonomous agency
