Authors Unite Against AI Copyright Infringement

In a significant protest against the unauthorized use of their works by artificial intelligence (AI) companies, approximately 10,000 authors have collaborated to publish an empty book titled *Don’t Steal This Book*. This initiative, spearheaded by composer and copyright advocate Ed Newton-Rex, aims to highlight the detrimental impact of AI on the livelihoods of writers and the publishing industry. The book, which contains only the names of the participating authors, was distributed at the London Book Fair on March 10, 2026, just days before the UK government is set to release an economic impact assessment regarding proposed changes to copyright law.

Emma Donoghue and Marian Keyes among authors publishing 'empty' book in protest over AIDeadline HollywoodThe IndependentThe Cool DownWriters protest ‘theft’ by AI companies, while Publishers’ Licensing Services suggests a way forward

The protest arises amid ongoing debates about the use of copyrighted material to train generative AI models. Current proposals by the UK government suggest relaxing copyright laws to allow AI firms to utilize authors' works without permission or compensation, unless authors explicitly opt out. This has sparked widespread concern among creatives, with a public consultation revealing that 95% of respondents favored maintaining or strengthening existing copyright protections.

Writers protest ‘theft’ by AI companies, while Publishers’ Licensing Services suggests a way forward

Notable authors participating in this protest include Richard Osman, Kazuo Ishiguro, Jeanette Winterson, Malorie Blackman, and Philippa Gregory. Their collective message emphasizes the need for the government to protect creative rights. Richard Osman stated, “This is not a victimless crime. Generative AI competes with the people whose work it is trained on, robbing them of their livelihoods.” Jeanette Winterson added, “If you can’t actively support us… then stop stealing our stuff.”

The Independent

A government spokesperson has indicated that they aim to create a copyright regime that values human creativity while fostering innovation. However, the proposed "commercial research" exception has raised concerns among authors, who fear it could enable further exploitation of their works. The House of Lords has also warned that generative AI poses a “clear and present danger” to the creative industries.

Writers protest ‘theft’ by AI companies, while Publishers’ Licensing Services suggests a way forward

While the protest has garnered significant attention, some industry voices are advocating for a more collaborative approach. The Publishers’ Licensing Services (PLS) has proposed a new opt-in collective licensing scheme that would allow AI developers to legally access copyrighted material in exchange for payment to authors and publishers. This initiative aims to ensure that creators are compensated for their work while allowing AI companies to develop their technologies legally.

Writers protest ‘theft’ by AI companies, while Publishers’ Licensing Services suggests a way forwardThe IndependentThe IndependentEmma Donoghue and Marian Keyes among authors publishing 'empty' book in protest over AI

• “The UK government must not legalize book theft to benefit AI companies,” — Ed Newton-Rex, Organizer

The Cool Down

• “This is not a victimless crime,” — Richard Osman, Author

The Independent

• “If you can’t actively support us (and you aren’t doing that) then stop stealing our stuff.” — Jeanette Winterson, Author

The Independent

As the UK government prepares to address these pressing issues, the outcome could significantly shape the future of copyright law and the relationship between AI technology and creative industries.

Writers protest ‘theft’ by AI companies, while Publishers’ Licensing Services suggests a way forward