Summary of the Brussels Convention Relating to the Distribution of Programme-Carrying Signals Transmitted by Satellite (1974)

The Convention provides for the obligation of each contracting State to take adequate measures to prevent the unauthorized distribution on or from its territory of any programme-carrying signal transmitted by satellite. The distribution is unauthorized if it has not been authorized by the organization—typically a broadcasting organization—which has decided what the programme consists of. The obligation exists in respect of organizations that are nationals of a contracting State.

The provisions of this Convention are not applicable, however, where the distribution of signals is made from a direct broadcasting satellite.

The Convention does not provide for the institution of a Union, any governing body or a budget.

It is open to any State that is a member of the United Nations or of any of the agencies belonging to the United Nations system of organizations. Instruments of ratification, acceptance or accession must be deposited with the Secretary-General of the United Nations.