France’s AI Copyright Bill Under Fire: Cultural Groups Cry Foul

France’s cultural sector is pushing back against a new bill that would make it easier for artificial intelligence (AI) systems to use copyrighted works. The proposed legislation aims to establish a legal “presumption of use” for copyrighted material by AI. In simple terms, this would mean that if an AI system uses a song, book, or image without permission, the law would assume the use was authorized—unless the creator can prove otherwise. Cultural groups, including authors, musicians, and publishers, have denounced the move. They argue the bill weakens their rights and shifts the burden of proof onto individual creators. Parliamentary debate has stalled, with opponents accusing lawmakers of favoring tech companies over artists. The dispute highlights a growing global tension: how to regulate AI without stifling innovation or destroying creative livelihoods. For now, the bill’s future remains uncertain as protests and political gridlock continue.