SAGA stands up for performers' rights at Constitutional Court demonstration

The South African Guild of Actors (SAGA) is taking a strong stand for performers’ rights by joining a pivotal Constitutional Court demonstration at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg.

The demonstration will bring together civil society organisations to demand fair compensation and protection of intellectual property rights for creative professionals.

SAGA’s participation underscores a long-standing commitment to securing fair earnings for South African actors, both living and deceased.

“For too long, South African performers have been denied residual earnings and royalties by producers and broadcasters,” the Guild said in a statement. “This not only undermines their ability to sustain a livelihood but also strips them of the dignity and recognition their work deserves.”

The demonstration also honours the legacy of actors who have passed on, and whose families continue to be denied the rightful compensation owed to them.

This action coincides with the Constitutional Court’s consideration of two crucial pieces of legislation: the Copyright Amendment Bill (CAB) and the Performers' Protection Amendment Bill (PPAB).

If implemented effectively, these bills would formalise equitable royalty structures and residual payments for actors and other creatives.

The Copyright Amendment Bill (CAB) is designed to modernise South Africa’s outdated copyright laws, with the aim of ensuring fair remuneration for creators, protecting their moral rights, and recognising digital rights.

It also includes provisions for royalty sharing and improved access for education, research, and persons with disabilities.

The Performers’ Protection Amendment Bill (PPAB) focuses specifically on safeguarding the rights of performers such as actors, musicians, and dancers. It introduces economic rights over recorded performances, royalty entitlements, stronger consent mechanisms, and protections for performers’ moral rights.

If implemented correctly, these bills would bring South Africa’s legal framework in line with international standards and help ensure equitable treatment for artists across the board.

SAGA is standing in solidarity with key partners including ReCreate, BlindSA, Section27, Wikimedia South Africa, SADTU, LIASA, and others, united in the belief that access, equity, and fair compensation are the foundations of a just society.

“SAGA urges all South Africans to recognise the value of the performing arts and the rights of those who dedicate their lives to storytelling,” the Guild stated. “We call on lawmakers and the judiciary to ensure that this legislation is just, inclusive, and enforceable.”

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