Oman marks World Book, Copyright Day

MUSCAT: Oman joined global celebration of World Book and Copyright Day on April 23 — an annual observance established by Unesco to promote reading, protect intellectual property and honour literary icons such as William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes.
This year’s observance comes at a time of rapid technological change, raising questions about the future of reading, publishing and authorship in the age of artificial intelligence.
In Oman, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth is pursuing a dual strategy that balances preservation of the printed book with the expansion of digital publishing.
Abdullah bin Mohammed al Harthy, Director-General of Knowledge and Cultural Development at the ministry, emphasised that printed books remain the most reliable repository of knowledge and cultural memory, even as digital formats expand access and reach. He noted ongoing efforts to digitise national cultural content and develop secure platforms to host Omani publications.
The ministry is also strengthening mechanisms to protect intellectual property, working in coordination with relevant authorities and aligning with international frameworks, including agreements under the World Intellectual Property Organization.
Strict compliance measures are enforced at book fairs, with legal action taken against violations.
Industry voices underline a shifting landscape. Nasra bint Ali al Maamariyah, founder of Hadaiq Al Fikr Publishing House, described publishers today as ‘guardians of quality’ amid a surge of AI-assisted and rapid publishing tools. She stressed the importance of prioritising originality, intellectual value and cultural responsibility when selecting content.
Similarly, Hussein Nahaba of Iraq’s Abjad Foundation highlighted the growing role of translation and digital platforms in elevating Arab literature globally, noting that strategic publishing, international partnerships and participation in global fairs are key to overcoming linguistic and geographic barriers.
Omani writer Said bin Sulaiman al Hatmi warned of the challenges posed by AI-generated texts, arguing that while such tools can mimic structure and style, they lack the essential human experience and emotional depth that define true literature. He also called for urgent updates to copyright laws to address the complexities introduced by generative technologies.
As Oman continues to engage with global literary platforms and reflect on the evolving role of books, the message remains clear: the written word — rooted in human experience — endures as both a keeper of memory and a catalyst for change. — ONA