The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Thursday, 23 July 2026, ratified seven international agreements and treaties aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and improving the country’s legal framework on intellectual property, culture, and accessibility.
PARLIAMENT RATIFIED THE FOLLOWING TREATIES:
1. Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances (2012) Signed 26th June, 2012
2. Marrakech Treaty (2013) Signed 28th June, 2013
3. Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works (1886) Including revisions at Paris 1896, Berlin 1908, Berne 1914, Rome 1928, Brussels 1948, Stockholm 1967, and Paris 1971, and amended in 1979
4. Brussels Convention (1974) Relating to the Distribution of Programme-Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite
5. Madrid Agreement (1891) On Indications of Source, revised at Washington 1911, The Hague 1925, London 1934, Lisbon 1958, and supplemented by the Additional Act of Stockholm 1967
6. Geneva Convention (1971) For the Protection of Producers of Phonograms Against Unauthorized Duplication of their Phonograms
7. Rome Convention (1961) For the Protection of Performers, Producers of Phonograms and Broadcasting Organizations
Presenting the agreements to Parliament, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., told Parliament that the ratifications are intended to enhance the rights of creators and ensure fair compensation for their work.
Speaking specifically on the Marrakech Treaty (2013), the Attorney General highlighted improvements to enable access to published works for blind and partially sighted persons, and to allow cross-border sharing of accessible format materials to address “book famine”. He added that it will provide a legal framework for reproducing and distributing books in accessible formats.
The Minister further emphasized support for authorized entities to produce copies for non-commercial lending or electronic distribution. He noted that these measures will promote an inclusive society with equal access to information and culture.
Commencing the debate, Hon. Joseph Williams Lamin , representing Bo District, emphasized the need to ensure adequate awareness and public education for citizens on agreements and treaties ratified by Parliament.
Rounding the debate on the side of the Opposition, the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, welcomed the domestication, calling it critical for globalization and IP protection.
He said the Marrakech Treaty would end discrimination against the visually impaired, while the Rome and Geneva Conventions would protect the entertainment industry. He urged nationwide sensitization and MP engagement.
Concluding the debate on the side of the Government, the Acting Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina, referenced the provision in the Constitution that mandates Parliament to ratify treaties.
He described the Beijing Treaty as key for cultural performance and fair competition, and the Marrakech Treaty as vital for cross-border access. He also raised concerns about piracy and plagiarism, and called for stronger copyright enforcement and support for MPs to popularize the treaties.
Lawmakers generally welcomed the ratification as a step towards protecting creators, promoting knowledge, and aligning Sierra Leone’s laws with international standards.
Addressing concerns raised by Members of Parliament, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq. highlighted government efforts to promote and protect Intellectual Property in Sierra Leone.
