More than 700 artists sign open letter to curb the unregulated use of artificial intelligence in the cultural sector

Figures like Scarlett Johansson, Cate Blanchett, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt support the manifesto "Stealing Is Not Innovation," which denounces the exploitation of creative works by technology companies

of january 23, 2026 at 12:25h
Captura de pantalla 2026 01 23 a las 12.26.50
Captura de pantalla 2026 01 23 a las 12.26.50

More than 700 artists, screenwriters, musicians, and creators from the United States and other parts of the world have signed an open letter rejecting the use of artificial intelligence (AI) without permission that uses copyrighted works to train its systems. The initiative, known as Stealing Isn’t Innovation, argues that AI must respect authorship and human participation in creative processes.

Among the signatories are high-profile names from film and entertainment, such as Scarlett Johansson, Cate Blanchett, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who have denounced that some technology companies use creative material without authorization or compensation, which, in their opinion, represents a form of "exploitation of works" rather than true progress. 

What the campaign demands

The manifesto does not propose halting the development of AI technologies, but rather demands that their use respect the rights of creators. The letter argues that a viable path exists for technological innovation and copyright to coexist through licensing agreements and transparency, avoiding practices that could undermine the value of artistic and creative work. 

Global Debate Context

The action occurs in a broader context where governments and lawmakers are considering new regulatory frameworks for AI in Europe and the United States, with particular attention to how artificial intelligence is trained with creative content, data, and copyrighted works.

 

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