Traditional Knowledge Laws: Albania

Subject Matter of Protection

Article 4 - Definitions

For the purposes of this Law, the terms used herein have the following meaning:
18. Folklore (folk art) means the entirety of folkloric works composed of artistic traditional components, perpetuated and created by a community or individual of this community, which reflects the cultural and artistic values and the heritage of this community.

Article 9 - Exception cases

The following are  not object of the copyright and does not enjoy the protection according to this law:
(g) folk expressions.

Scope of Protection

Article 52 - The interpreting and/or performing artists

1) For the purpose of this law, the performing or interpreting artists are:
The actors, singers, musicians, dancers and other persons, who present, sing, dance, recite, play, interpret in dramas, films, conduct orchestras or perform in any manner an artistic or literary work, a performance of every kind, including the folklore, variety shows, circus and puppet shows.

Article 53 - Non-proprietary rights of the player and performer artists

1. The interpreting and/or performing artist has not only the obligation to identify the origin (author, authors, etc) of the work interpreting and/or performing, but he/she has the following own non¬property rights:
      a) to ask for unveiling of their names, when their performances are presented in the public, transmitted or fixed in a phonogram registration, in cinematography or other container of audiovisual works, or in any other similar production;
      b) to ask the respect of the quality of the show and to object any change or falsification;
      c) to object any distribution, transmission or reproduction of the performances where he/she interpret and/or perform that could harm their honour or reputation.