The board of directors of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) has nominated veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar for the post of vice-president. Akhtar spearheaded the Copyright Amendment Bill 2012 in India and has been fighting to get the act amended. The bill has sparked creators and corporates around the globe to understand Indian Copyright Act as well as appreciate the contribution of creative artistes in it.

The nomination is a clear indication of the recognition of the lyricist’s key role in helming the fight, besides being a global tribute to the unanimous passage of the Copyright Act in Parliament. If confirmed by the General Assembly in Washington, it would be the first time that a creator from Asia has been appointed as the vice-president of CISAC. In its 87 years of inception, it is the first time ever that the CISAC board has designated candidates to the General Assembly.

The company statement reads: “In its last meeting ahead of the General Assembly in Washington on 6 June, the board of directors of CISAC has forwarded to the Assembly the name of Akhtar as its unanimously designated candidate for the vice-presidency of CISAC for his infatigable advocacy in favour of creators rights.”

Akhtar’s role will represent the three million creators registered with the 231 Authors’ Societies and Guilds in 121 countries and, based on his successful experience in India, help mobilise and lobby for their rights with governments and in various international fora. He will also be among the eminent panelists at the World Creators Summit on to be held from June 3 to 5 in Washington.