Christophe Van Vaerenbergh, Director of PlayRight, was elected as the new President of AEPO-ARTIS by its Board of Directors on 9 June. AEPO-ARTIS is the European association of organisations representing performers. It brings together collective management organisations that collect and distribute neighbouring rights for performers. Based in Brussels, the organisation currently counts 41 member societies active in 30 countries. 

On taking up his new role, Christophe highlighted the importance of AEPO-ARTIS: “The challenges faced by performers today go far beyond collective management. From the impact of artificial intelligence on the creative sector to strengthening rights protection and promoting international recognition of performers’ rights, important work lies ahead. I remain fully committed to ensuring that the voice of performers is heard at every level of decision-making.” 

He added: “Together with our members, partners and stakeholders, we will continue to advocate for a stronger, more transparent and more effective framework that protects performers and supports their future in a constantly evolving creative landscape.”