The media landscape is in constant evolution, with traditional broadcasting and digital streaming platforms creating new opportunities for content delivery. Successfully launching and operating a media service in Georgia requires navigating a complex regulatory environment and securing robust licensing agreements. At Legal Sandbox Georgia, we provide specialized legal counsel for broadcasters, streaming services, and content creators. Our expertise is founded on a meticulous understanding of the Law of Georgia on Broadcasting, which governs the sector, and the Law of Georgia on Copyright and Related Rights, which protects the content itself. We ensure our clients' operations are fully compliant and their commercial interests are protected.
Obtaining a license for traditional television or radio broadcasting is a critical process managed by the Georgian National Communications Commission (ComCom). We guide clients through every stage of the application process, from preparing the necessary documentation to representing them before the regulatory body. Our services ensure that the proposed broadcast operations adhere to all legal requirements, including regulations on advertising, the promotion of Georgian language content, and rules against disseminating illegal content. We provide strategic advice to secure the appropriate type of license, whether for national, regional, or community broadcasting, creating a solid legal foundation for your media venture.
The rise of Over-the-Top (OTT) and Video-on-Demand (VOD) services has expanded the scope of media regulation. Under Georgian law, streaming platforms are classified as "audiovisual media services on demand" and are subject to authorization by the Communications Commission. We assist streaming service providers in meeting these specific regulatory obligations, which include adherence to rules on advertising, the protection of minors, and the promotion of European works within their catalogues. Our firm ensures that your digital platform can operate successfully within Georgia's legal framework, mitigating the risk of regulatory penalties and operational disruptions.
Beyond regulatory licensing for platforms, the acquisition and distribution of content depend on expertly drafted licensing agreements. We represent both content creators and platforms in negotiating these crucial contracts. Governed by the Civil Code and copyright law, these agreements must clearly define the scope of the license, including territory, duration, exclusivity, and the specific rights granted for linear broadcast versus on-demand streaming. We structure these deals to ensure fair compensation, protect intellectual property, and provide the legal clarity necessary for a successful and profitable partnership between content owners and distributors.