Latest blog articles

  • In a recent judgment, the CJEU determined that the geographical indication Aceto Balsamico di Modena is only protected as a whole. This means that the non-geographical components ‘Aceto’ and ‘Balsamico’ are not protected individually.

  • Only 10 out of the 24 official EU language translations correctly transpose Article 17 of the Directive (EU) 2019/790 on copyright and related rights in the Digital Single Market. These apparent errors mandate urgent action by the European Commission and the EU Member States.

  • The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), just like many other IP offices in the world, has recently seen an incredible spike in Covid-19 related Trade Mark applications. This blog presents EUIPO’s approach in examining trade mark filings that relate directly or indirectly to, or in...

  • Last week, the Dutch and Belgian ombudsmen called on their governments to take action in the context of pensions problems for unemployed cross-border workers, aged 65, and living in Belgium. In response to this call, a possible solution by Expertise Centre ITEM is elaborated in this blog.

    This blog...

  • From an academic perspective, we need to revise our textbooks: after Cameron-Clegg (2010-2015), and after a narrow majority for Cameron in 2015, there will be no majority party in the UK nowadays. (Dutch only)

  • Would that not be much more attractive? So: a Cabinet without excessive programme and with a number of subjects that can be left open. (Dutch only)

  • After the Celebrations: What’s next for France? President-elect Macron has his work cut out. His challenges are many. There is much to do.

  • Emmanuel Macron’s victory in the French presidential election cannot distract from the fact that many challenges remain. President Macron’s most pivotal challenge in terms of governance will arrive in June.

  • While the world was looking towards Paris, there was another election that was taking place on Germany’s coast. Germany’s Social Democrats lose control of a pivotal state, at the worst possible time.

  • Theresa May’s surprise call for the general election may very well change…absolutely nothing.