The International Copyright Laws and South Africa Copyright Act: Implications on the African National Congress Liberation Archives Digitization (1960–1990)

Abstract The aim of this study is to discuss the importance of understanding international copyright laws as it relates to the digitization of records created in different countries and operating under different laws. It will also present empirical research findings on compliance with the principles of copyright- related to the digitization of the African National Congress Archives, such as, the international copyright laws or the South Africa Copyright Act (No. 98 of 1978). The paper used a qualitative method that allowed the triangulation of data collection methods or enhanced reliability and validity of the research finding. Interview data was augmented through interviews, document analysis and observation. The findings revealed that the African National Congress (ANC) adhered to some of the principles of copyright law during the digitization process. The study concludes that any organization that embarked on the digitization project must comply with copyright legislation. Furthermore, the implementation of digitization requires partnerships between project owners and technological companies.