The two main Performing Rights Orgranizations in the US, ASCAP and BMI,both have reciprocal relationships with Performing Rights Organizations around the world. Practically all developed countries have their own PRO´s that track and distribute payments for the work of songwriters they represent. When a songwriter from another country has one of their songs used in a television show in the US, this information is relayed to whatever PRO that writer is a member of, and the writer's PRO will distribute money to the writer for that
performance.
Conversely, writers that are based in the US and have their works broadcast in foreign countries will receive payments for these performances as well. This is often the case for syndicated american based shows that are broadcast around the world.
So whether you are a writer outside the US looking to license music here within the US, or you are a US based writer looking to explore foreign markets, there is
a system in place to assure you get paid.
Here is a partial list of international Performing Rights Organizations for songwriters who are based outside of the US:
