The theme of this final paper gives us an overview of the definitions, history, development and protection of copyrights and an insight into how the Republic of Croatia, by taking over the legal acquis of the European Union and signing international treaties and conventions, is keeping up with the other major countries in the world in the field of copyright protection. Furthermore, it investigates how copyright issues and disputes are resolved in the European Union and worldwide, how the digital environment affects the development of authorship and the protection of rights, which types of copyright infringement represent minor or major violations as perceived by citizens, how social media can create a safe (or safer) environment for their users/authors, how artificial intelligence can be a threat or a partner in the creation of copyrighted content and where all branches of copyright protection can appear in social life, education, science and art. However, the question arises in which segment(s) authors are not protected, whether the practice follows the legislative framework and whether it is effective and stimulating for further development. What should remain as a premise during the reflection on the copyright protection and development is the balance between the protection of copyright holders and the public interest and society.