Sharing of music files through the internet

Does the sharing of music files through the internet violate copyright laws?

I think there would be some differences between that the music or artistic production is downloaded in what kind of country or situation. If it will be downloaded in a country that there are no facilities for free trade and communication with the world, it is very difficult even impossible for majority of people to buy it legally, so maybe it is legitimate. As you know artistic productions are so necessary for developing cultures and attract people, so they are interested in the productions but there is no way to obtain them legally. I think there are some arguments for considering the whole internet music downloading as illegal action.

In fact, I want to consider the legal and social and humanistic aspect of the matter simultaneously, but I know there will be some difficulties in execution of law for preventing offensive people and criminals from breaking the law.