Art Workers Japan, a group of voice actors (seiyuus) and freelance musicians who are not represented by any agency, expressed their concerns about the potential replacement of seiyuus by artificial intelligence (AI) during a press conference in Tokyo on May 8th. The association sent a written request to the Agency for Cultural Affairs of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan and other agencies to protect the rights of seiyuus and other artists in the sector.
The association argued that AI could create animation, movies, and music without the need for voice actors or human actors, which could result in job losses for many workers in the industry. The president of the association, Megumi Morisaki, emphasized the need for new provisions to protect the rights of artists and for legislation that allows artists and other individuals to receive adequate compensation when an AI creates a work based on their work.
The association, created in 2021, has approximately 52,000 members, including voice actors, artists, actors, and stage personnel. Its goal is to create a safe and fair environment for those who work in the arts and entertainment, ensuring social security and fair rewards. The association is concerned about the growing presence of AI in the sector and hopes that measures will be taken to protect the rights of workers in the industry.
It is important to protect the rights of artists and other individuals in the entertainment industry. The use of AI technology in the creation of works should not result in job losses or a decrease in the value of artistic expression. The government and other agencies should take steps to protect the rights of workers and ensure that they receive fair compensation for their work. As consumers of entertainment, we also have a responsibility to support artists and acknowledge the value of their work. Let us work together to create a fair and equitable industry for all.
Source: NHK NEWS JAPAN
