We are pleased to announce the upcoming ESPRit online seminars on the topic of "Periodicals and the Law". You are invited to submit proposals for presentations that will explore the intersection of law and media in diverse contexts. These seminars provide a platform for engaging with contemporary issues in media law and the various legal frameworks shaping press practices globally.

Important Deadline: The submission deadline for proposal presentations is 3 March 2025

Seminar Focus: The subject matter of the seminars will be shaped by the participants' proposals. Suggested topics for consideration include, but are not limited to:

  • Press Regulation and Practices: Examining how press regulation varies across national contexts and the legal implications.
  • Legal Professions in the Media: Exploring the roles of journalists, lawyers, and lawmakers in shaping press regulation and practices.
  • Intellectual Property and Copyright: Delving into issues related to protected works (printed and visual materials), moral rights (appropriation art, remixes), ownership (authors, editors, photographers), exceptions (fair use), infringements, and licensing (Creative Commons).
  • Civil Law Protection: Discussing privacy rights, personal data protection, and right of publicity.
  • AI and Copyright Law: Investigating the intersection of artificial intelligence and copyright laws in print and visual media (a new and evolving subject).
  • Fiscal Policies: Understanding the fiscal implications of media laws and regulations.
  • Libel Legislation: Examining defamation laws and their impact on media.
  • Obscenity Laws: Analyzing legal frameworks around obscenity and media content.
  • State Censorship and Restrictions: Considering the role of state censorship, court injunctions, and security restrictions, including the persecution of media professionals.
  • Ownership and Antitrust Laws: Discussing restrictions on media ownership, such as anti-trust and anti-monopoly regulations.
  • Media Advertising Laws: Reviewing the legal landscape for advertising within the media.
  • Reporter Access Laws: Investigating legal barriers to reporter access, including geographic restrictions and military zones.

Seminar Format: Each seminar will be conducted via Zoom and will last for one hour. Presentations will include either a 20-30 minute keynote paper or two 15-minute papers followed by an interactive discussion. With the consent of both speakers and participants, seminars will be recorded and made available on ESPRit's YouTube channel for wider accessibility.

Call for Participation: We would be delighted if you could join us as a speaker in these seminars. If you have expertise in one of the listed topics or are engaged in relevant research, we encourage you to submit a proposal.

How to Participate: To submit your proposal or express interest, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by Monday, 3 March 2025. Additionally, please indicate your availability to participate, as exact seminar dates are yet to be determined.