SODAV: JOJ Dakar 2026 Copyright Protection Emphasized

• SODAV organized pedagogical days on October 22 to promote creator rights ahead of JOJ Dakar 2026.
• The COJOJ received a copyright compliance label, and other entities were recognized for respecting artists' rights.
• A partnership agreement was signed on September 17, 2026, formalizing COJOJ's commitment to copyright compliance.
• The compliance label, supported by CISAC, acknowledges organizations with exemplary literary and artistic property practices.
• Culture, including music and visual arts, is considered integral to the JOJ Dakar 2026, contributing to the educational experience and event identity.

Consequently, robust copyright protection emerges as an essential prerequisite for the successful realization of the JOJ Dakar 2026.

The Société sénégalaise du droit d’auteur et des droits voisins (SODAV) recently hosted educational sessions on October 22, emphasizing the critical importance of protecting creators' rights in anticipation of the upcoming Jeux olympiques de la jeunesse (JOJ) Dakar 2026. These pedagogical days served as a platform to underscore the significance of intellectual property within Senegal's cultural landscape as the nation prepares for the international sporting event.

A key outcome of the gathering was the presentation of a copyright compliance label to the Comité d’organisation des Jeux olympiques de la jeunesse (COJOJ), signaling its commitment to upholding intellectual property standards. Additionally, various companies and media outlets were honored for their dedication to respecting artists' rights, highlighting a broader movement towards enhanced compliance. The event saw the participation of prominent figures, including Hugues Dias, the Director of Culture, representing Alpha Thiam, the Minister of Culture, Crafts, and Tourism, and Mame Coumba Diop, the Minister attached to the Minister of Culture, Crafts and Tourism, in charge of Culture, Creative Industries and Historical Heritage.

Further reinforcing the initiative's importance, Ibrahima Wade, the General Coordinator of COJOJ, was present, alongside intellectual property specialists and delegates from international professional organizations. The overarching objective of these efforts is to position JOJ Dakar 2026 as a leading example of respect for creators' rights, particularly given the prominent role that music, audiovisual content, and visual arts are expected to play in the event's animation and media coverage.

The collaboration between COJOJ and SODAV has been instrumental in fostering a culture of copyright compliance for the Dakar 2026 Games. Ibrahima Wade, COJOJ's General Coordinator, lauded the strong working relationship between the two entities, specifically acknowledging the guidance and support provided by SODAV's Director General, Aly Bathily, and his dedicated team throughout the preparatory phases. This cooperative spirit culminated in a formal partnership agreement, which was officially signed on September 17, 2026.

This landmark agreement solidifies COJOJ's commitment to adhering to copyright requirements, reflecting its proactive stance on intellectual property. According to Wade, this strategic move demonstrates the organizing committee's deliberate intention to fully integrate cultural dimensions into the comprehensive planning of the Games. The subsequent awarding of the copyright compliance label to COJOJ serves as a direct recognition of this significant commitment.

The compliance label itself is an initiative supported by the Confédération internationale des sociétés d’auteurs et compositeurs (CISAC), an international body dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of creators. This distinction is designed to commend organizations and users who exemplify best practices in respecting literary and artistic property, thereby encouraging higher standards across the creative industries.

Organizers of the JOJ Dakar 2026 emphasize that the event transcends mere athletic competition, with cultural elements forming a crucial component of its identity and global appeal. The music accompanying ceremonies, the visual content disseminated by media, graphic designs, official logos, and other artistic productions collectively contribute to the unique character and influence of the Games. This holistic view underscores the indispensable contribution of creative works to the overall success and resonance of such a major international gathering.

Aziz Dieng, an expert affiliated with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), highlighted the distinctive position of culture within the Youth Olympic Games framework. He explained that, unlike traditional Olympic Games where culture primarily serves as an accompaniment to sports, in the JOJ format, culture actively participates in the educational and cultural enrichment experience for young athletes. This integration aims to provide a more comprehensive and engaging environment for participants.

Drawing a parallel with traditional Senegalese wrestling, Dieng illustrated how indigenous sports practices are intrinsically interwoven with songs, rhythms, narratives, and artistic performances. This profound connection between sport and culture, he argued, powerfully demonstrates the necessity of acknowledging and safeguarding the contributions of artists to the triumph of sporting events. Consequently, robust copyright protection emerges as an essential prerequisite for the successful realization of the JOJ Dakar 2026.

Lawyers and compliance officers advising entities involved in or sponsoring major cultural and sporting events in Senegal, such as the JOJ Dakar 2026, must prioritize comprehensive intellectual property due diligence, particularly regarding copyright for creative content. This development signals a heightened focus on IP compliance by Senegalese authorities and international bodies, making robust IP strategies crucial to avoid infringement risks and potentially achieve recognition for adherence to best practices.

Source: Original reporting via Senegalese media outlet