The Global Book Famine – Exploring Its Origin, Impact, and Resolution

This chapter is devoted exclusively to discussions surrounding the global problem that gave rise to the need for a new international copyright law Treaty, that is, the global book famine. It first of all sets out a broad understanding of what is meant by the term ‘book famine’ in a disability rights context, before considering the impact that it has had on the fundamental rights of persons who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled. An overview of the negotiations that successfully led to the adoption of the Marrakesh Treaty is provided, including the reasons why the Treaty was considered to be the best of the available options for a legal resolution to the global book famine. The chapter also discusses the various formats and technologies which persons with print disabilities use to access the written word, with emphasis on how advancements in these technological spheres are essential to achieving reading equality. Overall, it provides the reader with a detailed understanding of the global book famine from the perspectives of its origin, impact, and resolution.