The new French law on author's rights and related rights in the information society

Purpose - France implemented the EU Copyright Directive (EUCD) in June 2006. This paper aims to reprise the history of the new law, its content, some reactions and the possible impact on document supply. Design/methodology/approach - This paper gives a short description of the content of the new law, of the debate, reactions and possible impact on document supply. Of special interest is the question of private copying and the exception for education and research. Findings - The late implementation of the directive by France gives an idea of its limits in the emerging digital environment. Maybe the passionate and controversial French debate finally will have contributed to the revision of the EUCD and to a more equitable legal situation. Originality/value - Gives a description of, and insights into, the French implementation of the EU Directive and the fierce debates it prompted.