MEPs to back 'passport' for investment funds
"Revision makes cross-border investment easier; directive offers significant savings for funds.
The European Parliament is expected to approve a report next week (13 January) that will recommend making it easier for investment funds to operate outside the state they are registered in. Under a controversial management ‘passport' provision, which MEPs are set to insert into a directive proposed by the European Commission, investment funds will be able to locate their operations outside their state of origin more quickly. The revised directive on UCITS (undertakings for collective investment in transferable securities) will mean significant cost-savings for funds. It will also make cross-border mergers of investment funds easier." [EuropeanVoice]
The Week Ahead 12-18 January 2009: Plenary Session – Strasbourg (overview)
[Europa]
Showing posts with label EU Parliament. Show all posts
Showing posts with label EU Parliament. Show all posts
1/5/09
EU Parliament Monitor - 05/01/09
Sony BMG Merger Still Under Scrutiny
"The European Parliament continues to seek further scrutiny of the Sony BMG merger, although the major has since demerged and will officially be renamed Sony Music Entertainment in 2009.
EC Commissioner for competition Neelie Kroes has six weeks to provide a written explanation regarding competition in the music market.
Independent labels trade body Impala is also continuing its campaign against the merger and its appeal will be heard in Europe next year. Impala objected to the buy-out of Bertelsmann's stake by Sony BMG, which was approved by the European Commission in September. However, Impala will not launch a new appeal over the buy-out, preferring to focus on the original merger ruling in response to the indies' concerns about market concentration. Sony BMG declined to comment." [Billboard]
Round-up of December Strasbourg sitting
"In a hectic year-end session, MEPs demanded an end to national opt-outs to the 48-hour working week and backed measures to cut Europe's CO2 emissions by 2020. Also during the final sitting of the year, the parliament awarded the 20th Sakharov Prize for human rights to Chinese dissident Hu Jia in absentia.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy defended France's record during its 6-month presidency of the European Union (see article about Tuesday’s meeting – not very detailed) . MEPs mainly gave Mr Sarkozy a positive response for his handling of new EU climate change legislation and the crisis in Georgia." [Europa]
"The European Parliament continues to seek further scrutiny of the Sony BMG merger, although the major has since demerged and will officially be renamed Sony Music Entertainment in 2009.
EC Commissioner for competition Neelie Kroes has six weeks to provide a written explanation regarding competition in the music market.
Independent labels trade body Impala is also continuing its campaign against the merger and its appeal will be heard in Europe next year. Impala objected to the buy-out of Bertelsmann's stake by Sony BMG, which was approved by the European Commission in September. However, Impala will not launch a new appeal over the buy-out, preferring to focus on the original merger ruling in response to the indies' concerns about market concentration. Sony BMG declined to comment." [Billboard]
Round-up of December Strasbourg sitting
"In a hectic year-end session, MEPs demanded an end to national opt-outs to the 48-hour working week and backed measures to cut Europe's CO2 emissions by 2020. Also during the final sitting of the year, the parliament awarded the 20th Sakharov Prize for human rights to Chinese dissident Hu Jia in absentia.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy defended France's record during its 6-month presidency of the European Union (see article about Tuesday’s meeting – not very detailed) . MEPs mainly gave Mr Sarkozy a positive response for his handling of new EU climate change legislation and the crisis in Georgia." [Europa]
12/30/08
EU Commission: Competition - 30/12/08
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT QUESTIONS SONYBMG APPROVALS
"The elected European Parliament has challenged the European Commission about it's speedy decision earlier this year to allow Sony Music to buy Bertelsmann out of the two companies' joint venture record company, SonyBMG, which put the second biggest music firm in the world into the ownership of one organisation, Sony Corp.
"The European Parliament continues to seek further scrutiny of the Sony BMG merger, although the major has since demerged and will officially be renamed Sony Music Entertainment in 2009.
"One of the most important developments in EC competition policy during 2006 was the Court of First Instance’s (CFI) Impala v. Commission judgment annulling the European Commission’s approval of the merger between the music units of Sony and Bertelsmann. It harshly criticized the Commission’s Decision because it found that the evidence relied on was not capable of substantiating the conclusion. This was the first time that a merger decision was annulled for not meeting the requisite legal standard for authorizing the merger. Consequently, the CFI raised fundamental questions about the standard of proof incumbent on the Commission in its merger review procedures. On
Pan-European Indie Label Group Attacks EC’s Decision to Allow Sony Corporation Buyout of Sony BMG (Because In Other Parts of the World, People Actually Freak Out When This Shit Happens)
12/19/08
EU Parliament Monitor - 19/12/08
European Parliament questions Sony BMG merger
"The indie sector has been given renewed hope that the Sony BMG merger story hasn’t ended following the European Parliament’s decision to ask the EC competition commissioner to justify her decision to approve the merger of the two majors in 2004.
The European Parliament has fired off three questions to Neelie Kroes challenging the Commission about competition in the music market. The questions are:
- Why did the Commission not carry out an in-depth investigation when it adopted its last approval decision?
- What is the Commission's strategy for making sure that SMEs have market access in concentrated sectors like music?
- Will the Commission adopt new rules or guidelines on how competition policy should be adapted to cultural markets such as music?
The commissioner has six weeks to provide a written explanation, although it is unclear what action Parliament can take if it doesn’t like her answers. Meanwhile, European indie organisation IMPALA is still appealing the original EC decisions allowing Sony and BMG to merge, which led to an appeal in the Court of First Instance. An IMPALA spokesman says that the move by Parliament is quite rare and it means Kroes has to justify her decision.
SonyBMG were not commenting." [MusicWeek]
European Parliament questions Sony BMG approvals
"The elected European Parliament has challenged the European Commission about it's speedy decision earlier this year to allow Sony Music to buy Bertelsmann out of the two companies' joint venture record company, SonyBMG, which put the second biggest music firm in the world into the ownership of one organisation, Sony Corp.
They also question the Commission's wider policy regarding allowing such big companies to be created in the music and cultural industries without safeguards to protect smaller independent firms - in essence questioning the approval of the SonyBMG merger in the first place.
As much previously reported, the merger of Sony Corp and Bertlesmann's respective record companies to create SonyBMG in 2004 was not without controversy. Pan-European indie label trade body IMPALA said the creation of a company as big as SonyBMG was anti-competitive and should not be approved by the Commission (who have the power to block such deals). When the Commission then OKed the merger, without conditions, IMPALA went to the European Courts who ruled in the trade body's favour, agreeing that the Commission had failed to sufficiently investigate the merger before giving it the green light and ordering them to reinvestigate the proposals. That they did, subsequently approving the merger for a second time. IMPALA are currently appealing that Commission decision too." [CMUDaily]
European Parliament challenges the Commission again about competition in the music market and the SonyBMG merger, as independents’ appeal continues without new action over Sony buy out
"The European Parliament has challenged the European Commission for the third time over SonyBMG. The EC Commissioner for Competition, Neelie Kroes has six weeks to provide a written explanation regarding:
1. Why the Commission did not carry out an in-depth investigation when it adopted its last approval decision?
2. What the Commission's strategy is for making sure that SMEs have market access in concentrated sectors like music?
3. Whether the Commission will adopt new rules or guidelines on how competition policy should be adapted to the specificities of cultural markets such as music?
In the meantime IMPALA will continue its initial appeal regarding SonyBMG. In September the European Commission approved the buy out by Sony of Bertelsmann's shares in the joint venture SonyBMG and IMPALA objected because no remedies were put in place and there was no detailed investigation. As IMPALA is still in litigation over the creation of SonyBMG in the first place, however, it will not launch a new appeal over the buy out. IMPALA's concerns mainly relate to the market power of SonyBMG (and the other majors) rather than who owns it. IMPALA's appeal in the European courts will be heard again by the judges next year. IMPALA also appealed the EC's second approval decision and this case is on hold while the appeal against the first approval is being dealt with." [RecordOftheDay]
Christa Prets MEP on media literacy in a digital world: MEP Christa Prets wants more "digital education"
"We all need to better understand the media we are touched by daily, especially the young, says Austrian Socialist Christa Prets. MEPs backed her report on "media literacy in a digital world" on Tuesday. In an exclusive interview Ms Prets explained to us what media literacy actually is, how we can improve it and how it can be used to teach the young." [Europa]
"The indie sector has been given renewed hope that the Sony BMG merger story hasn’t ended following the European Parliament’s decision to ask the EC competition commissioner to justify her decision to approve the merger of the two majors in 2004.
The European Parliament has fired off three questions to Neelie Kroes challenging the Commission about competition in the music market. The questions are:
- Why did the Commission not carry out an in-depth investigation when it adopted its last approval decision?
- What is the Commission's strategy for making sure that SMEs have market access in concentrated sectors like music?
- Will the Commission adopt new rules or guidelines on how competition policy should be adapted to cultural markets such as music?
The commissioner has six weeks to provide a written explanation, although it is unclear what action Parliament can take if it doesn’t like her answers. Meanwhile, European indie organisation IMPALA is still appealing the original EC decisions allowing Sony and BMG to merge, which led to an appeal in the Court of First Instance. An IMPALA spokesman says that the move by Parliament is quite rare and it means Kroes has to justify her decision.
SonyBMG were not commenting." [MusicWeek]
European Parliament questions Sony BMG approvals
"The elected European Parliament has challenged the European Commission about it's speedy decision earlier this year to allow Sony Music to buy Bertelsmann out of the two companies' joint venture record company, SonyBMG, which put the second biggest music firm in the world into the ownership of one organisation, Sony Corp.
They also question the Commission's wider policy regarding allowing such big companies to be created in the music and cultural industries without safeguards to protect smaller independent firms - in essence questioning the approval of the SonyBMG merger in the first place.
As much previously reported, the merger of Sony Corp and Bertlesmann's respective record companies to create SonyBMG in 2004 was not without controversy. Pan-European indie label trade body IMPALA said the creation of a company as big as SonyBMG was anti-competitive and should not be approved by the Commission (who have the power to block such deals). When the Commission then OKed the merger, without conditions, IMPALA went to the European Courts who ruled in the trade body's favour, agreeing that the Commission had failed to sufficiently investigate the merger before giving it the green light and ordering them to reinvestigate the proposals. That they did, subsequently approving the merger for a second time. IMPALA are currently appealing that Commission decision too." [CMUDaily]
European Parliament challenges the Commission again about competition in the music market and the SonyBMG merger, as independents’ appeal continues without new action over Sony buy out
"The European Parliament has challenged the European Commission for the third time over SonyBMG. The EC Commissioner for Competition, Neelie Kroes has six weeks to provide a written explanation regarding:
1. Why the Commission did not carry out an in-depth investigation when it adopted its last approval decision?
2. What the Commission's strategy is for making sure that SMEs have market access in concentrated sectors like music?
3. Whether the Commission will adopt new rules or guidelines on how competition policy should be adapted to the specificities of cultural markets such as music?
In the meantime IMPALA will continue its initial appeal regarding SonyBMG. In September the European Commission approved the buy out by Sony of Bertelsmann's shares in the joint venture SonyBMG and IMPALA objected because no remedies were put in place and there was no detailed investigation. As IMPALA is still in litigation over the creation of SonyBMG in the first place, however, it will not launch a new appeal over the buy out. IMPALA's concerns mainly relate to the market power of SonyBMG (and the other majors) rather than who owns it. IMPALA's appeal in the European courts will be heard again by the judges next year. IMPALA also appealed the EC's second approval decision and this case is on hold while the appeal against the first approval is being dealt with." [RecordOftheDay]
Christa Prets MEP on media literacy in a digital world: MEP Christa Prets wants more "digital education"
"We all need to better understand the media we are touched by daily, especially the young, says Austrian Socialist Christa Prets. MEPs backed her report on "media literacy in a digital world" on Tuesday. In an exclusive interview Ms Prets explained to us what media literacy actually is, how we can improve it and how it can be used to teach the young." [Europa]
12/15/08
EU Parliament Monitor - 15/12/08
Briefing - 15-18 December 2008 - Strasbourg plenary session
[Europa]
The Week Ahead 15-21 December 2008: Plenary Session in Strasbourg
[Europa]
Lisbon deal could change size of European Parliament
"French proposal would result in a Parliament with 754 MEPs from 2010; deal also outlines means of managing transition to new form of presidency. Part of an emerging deal triggered by efforts to convince the Irish to approve the Treaty of Lisbon by October 2009 is a plan that would leave the European Parliament with fewer MEPs than it currently has but more than currently envisaged in the Lisbon treaty.
EU leaders are today discussing the offer of a set of guarantees that it hopes will help the Irish government convince its electorate to adopt the reform treaty, but the most likely timeline for a referendum – by October 2009 – would mean that the European Parliament elections in June would be held under rules set out in the Treaty of Nice. Those stipulate that the number of MEPs should be cut from the current 785 to 736. If the Lisbon treaty were in force by then, the assembly would have 751 members." [EuropeanVoice]
[Europa]
The Week Ahead 15-21 December 2008: Plenary Session in Strasbourg
[Europa]
Lisbon deal could change size of European Parliament
"French proposal would result in a Parliament with 754 MEPs from 2010; deal also outlines means of managing transition to new form of presidency. Part of an emerging deal triggered by efforts to convince the Irish to approve the Treaty of Lisbon by October 2009 is a plan that would leave the European Parliament with fewer MEPs than it currently has but more than currently envisaged in the Lisbon treaty.
EU leaders are today discussing the offer of a set of guarantees that it hopes will help the Irish government convince its electorate to adopt the reform treaty, but the most likely timeline for a referendum – by October 2009 – would mean that the European Parliament elections in June would be held under rules set out in the Treaty of Nice. Those stipulate that the number of MEPs should be cut from the current 785 to 736. If the Lisbon treaty were in force by then, the assembly would have 751 members." [EuropeanVoice]
EU Council Monitor - 15/12/08
December European Council
"The European Council on 11 and 12 December 2008 approved a European Economic Recovery Plan, equivalent to about 1,5 % of the GDP of the European Union (a figure amounting to around EUR 200 billion). The plan provides a common framework for the efforts made by Member States and by the European Union, with a view to ensuring consistency and maximising effectiveness.
The European Council also reached agreement on the energy/climate change package which should enable this package to be finalised with the European Parliament by the end of the year. This decisive breakthrough will enable the European Union to honour the ambitious commitments entered into in this area in 2007 to maintain its leading role in the search for an ambitious and comprehensive global agreement at Copenhagen next year.
The European Council demonstrated its intent, through concrete decisions, to give new impetus to the European Security and Defence Policy in order to meet the new security challenges.
Lastly, the European Council discussed the factors designed to respond to the concerns expressed during the Irish referendum and established an approach to enable the Treaty of Lisbon to come into force before the end of 2009." [Europa]
France to give account of presidency to Parliament
"Working-time directive and budget will feature on an agenda dominated by a review of France's presidency of the EU and of the EU summit. The European Parliament is meeting for its last plenary session of the year and the four-day session, from 15 to 18 December, will have a distinct end-of-year feel, with the French providing a review of their presidency of the EU.
On 16 December, French President Nicolas Sarkozy will present to MEPs an overall review of the French presidency as well as the specific results of the EU summit of 11-12 December, focusing on the economy, the climate-change package, and the deal struck in a bid to convince the Irish to adopt the Treaty of Lisbon.
Accounts of the French presidency will be presented to the Parliament's Economic Committee on 15 December by Finance Minister Christine Lagarde and, on 16 December, to the Constitutional Affairs Committee by Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner. Both ministers will essentially provide a run-down of the developments in their policy fields agreed during the French presidency." [EuropeanVoice]
"The European Council on 11 and 12 December 2008 approved a European Economic Recovery Plan, equivalent to about 1,5 % of the GDP of the European Union (a figure amounting to around EUR 200 billion). The plan provides a common framework for the efforts made by Member States and by the European Union, with a view to ensuring consistency and maximising effectiveness.
The European Council also reached agreement on the energy/climate change package which should enable this package to be finalised with the European Parliament by the end of the year. This decisive breakthrough will enable the European Union to honour the ambitious commitments entered into in this area in 2007 to maintain its leading role in the search for an ambitious and comprehensive global agreement at Copenhagen next year.
The European Council demonstrated its intent, through concrete decisions, to give new impetus to the European Security and Defence Policy in order to meet the new security challenges.
Lastly, the European Council discussed the factors designed to respond to the concerns expressed during the Irish referendum and established an approach to enable the Treaty of Lisbon to come into force before the end of 2009." [Europa]
France to give account of presidency to Parliament
"Working-time directive and budget will feature on an agenda dominated by a review of France's presidency of the EU and of the EU summit. The European Parliament is meeting for its last plenary session of the year and the four-day session, from 15 to 18 December, will have a distinct end-of-year feel, with the French providing a review of their presidency of the EU.
On 16 December, French President Nicolas Sarkozy will present to MEPs an overall review of the French presidency as well as the specific results of the EU summit of 11-12 December, focusing on the economy, the climate-change package, and the deal struck in a bid to convince the Irish to adopt the Treaty of Lisbon.
Accounts of the French presidency will be presented to the Parliament's Economic Committee on 15 December by Finance Minister Christine Lagarde and, on 16 December, to the Constitutional Affairs Committee by Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner. Both ministers will essentially provide a run-down of the developments in their policy fields agreed during the French presidency." [EuropeanVoice]
12/5/08
EU Parliament Monitor - 05/12/08
Future price cap proposals for mobile phone roaming services debated
Price caps for sending text messages abroad and other data roaming services such as video downloads or mobile TV were debated at a hearing of Parliament's Industry Committee on Tuesday. MEPs also discussed with mobile operators, regulators and consumer organisations whether there was a need to set voice-call roaming price caps for 2010-13.
"Retail and wholesale price caps for roaming calls are unfortunately still necessary", said Parliament's rapporteur Adina-Ioana Vālean (ALDE, RO) because "many charges remain disproportionately high". Regulation should, however, "continue to be an exceptional measure" as "a healthy roaming market will not be able to prosper under a long-term regulation", she said. [EuroParl]
Highlights of Brussels plenary session 3-4 December
[EuroParl]
Price caps for sending text messages abroad and other data roaming services such as video downloads or mobile TV were debated at a hearing of Parliament's Industry Committee on Tuesday. MEPs also discussed with mobile operators, regulators and consumer organisations whether there was a need to set voice-call roaming price caps for 2010-13.
"Retail and wholesale price caps for roaming calls are unfortunately still necessary", said Parliament's rapporteur Adina-Ioana Vālean (ALDE, RO) because "many charges remain disproportionately high". Regulation should, however, "continue to be an exceptional measure" as "a healthy roaming market will not be able to prosper under a long-term regulation", she said. [EuroParl]
Highlights of Brussels plenary session 3-4 December
[EuroParl]
11/28/08
EU Events Monitor - 28/11/08
Françoise Le Bail: Small business, big ideas
"Next May, entrepreneurs from across the EU and further afield will take part in a series of events marking the first ever European SME Week. The week, which will run from 6-14 May, is being coordinated by the European commission’s enterprise and industry directorate-general under the slogan, “Small business, big ideas”. SME week will include fairs and conferences, online events, art and performance, networking events, company open days and competitions, all aimed at supporting Europe’s small businesses." [ParliamentMagazine]
Briefing - 3-4 December 2008 - Brussels plenary session
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/expert/briefing_page/41903-322-11-47-20081113BRI41902-17-11-2008-2008/default_en.htm
"Next May, entrepreneurs from across the EU and further afield will take part in a series of events marking the first ever European SME Week. The week, which will run from 6-14 May, is being coordinated by the European commission’s enterprise and industry directorate-general under the slogan, “Small business, big ideas”. SME week will include fairs and conferences, online events, art and performance, networking events, company open days and competitions, all aimed at supporting Europe’s small businesses." [ParliamentMagazine]
Briefing - 3-4 December 2008 - Brussels plenary session
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/expert/briefing_page/41903-322-11-47-20081113BRI41902-17-11-2008-2008/default_en.htm
EU Commission Telecommunications - 28/11/08
27/11: Telecoms Council: Commission sees improved Council position on the EU Telecoms Reform as good basis for negotiations with the European Parliament
"Telecoms Council: Commission sees improved Council position on the EU Telecoms Reform as good basis for negotiations with the European Parliament
Following the Telecoms Council's deliberations this morning, Viviane Reding, the EU Telecoms Commissioner, commented on the Council's results for the EU Telecoms Reform as follows: "There was a constructive crisis this morning at the Council meeting, as several delegations felt that the Council text agreed so far was not ambitious enough. I applaud Secretary of State Luc Chatel for having resolved this crisis with skill and a pro-European intention. The new text now agreed by Ministers is an improvement compared with the initial text of this morning, even though I continue to believe that Europe's telecoms sector requires better rules than those now on the table here. Nevertheless, the new Council text is a basis now for the negotiations between Council and the European Parliament, which co-decides on the EU-Telecoms Reform. However, if we want to reach an agreement under this Parliament, all three institutions – Parliament, Council and Commission – must sit down together without delay and get down to work on a common approach. Europe has no time to lose: our operators need a single market for telecoms; our rich spectrum resources need to be managed more effectively in the interests of our economy and the goal of 'broadband for all' – especially in these difficult economic times; and European consumers should have a clear bill of rights. I therefore ask the French Presidency to call a meeting of the three institutions early in December. Only this can pave the way for a second reading agreement in spring 2009."" [Europa]
"Telecoms Council: Commission sees improved Council position on the EU Telecoms Reform as good basis for negotiations with the European Parliament
Following the Telecoms Council's deliberations this morning, Viviane Reding, the EU Telecoms Commissioner, commented on the Council's results for the EU Telecoms Reform as follows: "There was a constructive crisis this morning at the Council meeting, as several delegations felt that the Council text agreed so far was not ambitious enough. I applaud Secretary of State Luc Chatel for having resolved this crisis with skill and a pro-European intention. The new text now agreed by Ministers is an improvement compared with the initial text of this morning, even though I continue to believe that Europe's telecoms sector requires better rules than those now on the table here. Nevertheless, the new Council text is a basis now for the negotiations between Council and the European Parliament, which co-decides on the EU-Telecoms Reform. However, if we want to reach an agreement under this Parliament, all three institutions – Parliament, Council and Commission – must sit down together without delay and get down to work on a common approach. Europe has no time to lose: our operators need a single market for telecoms; our rich spectrum resources need to be managed more effectively in the interests of our economy and the goal of 'broadband for all' – especially in these difficult economic times; and European consumers should have a clear bill of rights. I therefore ask the French Presidency to call a meeting of the three institutions early in December. Only this can pave the way for a second reading agreement in spring 2009."" [Europa]
11/14/08
EU Parliament Monitor - 14/11/08
The Week Ahead 17-23 November 2008
Plenary Session – Strasbourg [Europa]
Arab week in pictures
"Arab and European politics and culture came together under the European Parliament's roof in Brussels this week, as relations between the two were discussed in a series of seminars on education, human rights and the price and future of oil.
Arabic culture was on display with exhibitions, a performance by folk groups from Bahrain and Arab calligraphy demonstrations
The events during 3-7 November took place as part of the European year of intercultural dialogue." [Europa]
Plenary Session – Strasbourg [Europa]
Arab week in pictures
"Arab and European politics and culture came together under the European Parliament's roof in Brussels this week, as relations between the two were discussed in a series of seminars on education, human rights and the price and future of oil.
Arabic culture was on display with exhibitions, a performance by folk groups from Bahrain and Arab calligraphy demonstrations
The events during 3-7 November took place as part of the European year of intercultural dialogue." [Europa]
11/7/08
EU Parliament Monitor - 07/11/08
Innovating for economic growth I (Guest coIumnist: Reino Paasilinna MEP)
"The EU needs to focus on knowledge-intensive products and services as European prices cannot compete with those in emerging markets.
The free movement of knowledge in the EU is a basic right worth fighting for. It means giving citizens access to the best, most up-to-date information and making it possible for researchers, universities and businesses to interact and co-operate freely. That objective is still beset with certain challenges: diverse higher education systems, the immobility of researchers, insufficient funding and questions of intellectual property.
So what role will the new European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) play in this changing field?" [EuropeanVoice]
Innovating for economic growth II (Guest columnist: Jerzy Buzek MEP)
"Innovation is crucial for the EU if it is toenjoy economic success, but growth has to be balanced with social security and protection of the environment.
A fundamental aim of economic development in the free market economy is to achieve competitiveness. But economic growth has to be balanced with social security and protection of the environment. Therefore, the most important challenge is how to achieve competitiveness within this context. And finding the right response to this is vital if the EU is to enjoy economic success in the 21 century." [EuropeanVoice]
"The EU needs to focus on knowledge-intensive products and services as European prices cannot compete with those in emerging markets.
The free movement of knowledge in the EU is a basic right worth fighting for. It means giving citizens access to the best, most up-to-date information and making it possible for researchers, universities and businesses to interact and co-operate freely. That objective is still beset with certain challenges: diverse higher education systems, the immobility of researchers, insufficient funding and questions of intellectual property.
So what role will the new European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) play in this changing field?" [EuropeanVoice]
Innovating for economic growth II (Guest columnist: Jerzy Buzek MEP)
"Innovation is crucial for the EU if it is toenjoy economic success, but growth has to be balanced with social security and protection of the environment.
A fundamental aim of economic development in the free market economy is to achieve competitiveness. But economic growth has to be balanced with social security and protection of the environment. Therefore, the most important challenge is how to achieve competitiveness within this context. And finding the right response to this is vital if the EU is to enjoy economic success in the 21 century." [EuropeanVoice]
11/3/08
EU Events Monitor: 03/11/08
JURI Committee: JURI - Copyright and related rights - 04.11.08
"On 4 November 2008 from 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., the Committee on Legal Affairs will have a hearing on "Term of protection of copyright and related rights".
At that occasion, Mr Brian Crowley, rapporteur, will present his draft report."
Copyright term gets Brussels hearing
The legal affairs committee of the European Parliament is opening its public hearing on copyright term next Tuesday.
SHARKEY TO ADDRESS ISP CONFERENCE
"UK Music boss Feargal Sharkey will speak at the annual conference of the Internet Service Providers' Association in London next month.
His booking is part of UK Music's attempts to negotiate a truce between the music industry and the internet providers after the former accused the latter of turning a blind eye to online piracy because it helped them flog more broadband subscriptions. As previously reported, negotiations between Sharkey and record label trade body the BPI and six ISPs have already led to a 'memorandum of understanding' between all parties which has seen the net firms send out warning letters to suspected file sharers, and will also see the launch of new licensed music services by the net providers." [CMUDaily]
"On 4 November 2008 from 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., the Committee on Legal Affairs will have a hearing on "Term of protection of copyright and related rights".
At that occasion, Mr Brian Crowley, rapporteur, will present his draft report."
Copyright term gets Brussels hearing
The legal affairs committee of the European Parliament is opening its public hearing on copyright term next Tuesday.
SHARKEY TO ADDRESS ISP CONFERENCE
"UK Music boss Feargal Sharkey will speak at the annual conference of the Internet Service Providers' Association in London next month.
His booking is part of UK Music's attempts to negotiate a truce between the music industry and the internet providers after the former accused the latter of turning a blind eye to online piracy because it helped them flog more broadband subscriptions. As previously reported, negotiations between Sharkey and record label trade body the BPI and six ISPs have already led to a 'memorandum of understanding' between all parties which has seen the net firms send out warning letters to suspected file sharers, and will also see the launch of new licensed music services by the net providers." [CMUDaily]
EU Events Monitor: 03/11/08
WOMEX: European Commission meets music sector professionals
"The European Commission meets with the music industry at the World Music Expo (WOMEX) in Sevilla, Spain, on 31 October 2008, to discuss modalities to strengthen the capacities of the music sector in developing countries.
The Commission will be exchanging views with music stakeholders on how to work together to strengthen the structures of the music industry in developing countries. There are three main themes:
* investing in culture for development,
* creativity and innovation and
* intercultural dialogue." [Europa]
First European Interactive Heritage Forum on "Heritage and Dialogue"
"The Forum took place in Brussels, on 23-24 October 2008, on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the European Heritage Days in Belgium and as a contribution to 2008 – European Year of Intercultural Dialogue.
The first European Heritage Forum, organised within the context of the European Heritage Days – a joint action of the Council of Europe and the European Commission, took place in Brussels, on 23-24 October 2008, on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the European Heritage Days in Belgium and as a contribution to 2008 – European Year of Intercultural Dialogue." [Europa]
The Week Ahead: 3 to 9 November 2008
Parliamentary committee meetings - Brussels [Europa]
Culture Committee: Public Hearing:" A Bridge between cultures in the EU regions", 6 November
"Following a state of play and examples of cultural cooperation among regions, experts will debate with Members on how to build bridges of understanding, future challenges and opportunities."
Community participation in the European Audiovisual Observatory
"Ivo BELET (EPP-ED, BE) will present his draft report on Community participation in the European Audiovisual Observatory on 6 November. He will address among others some specific issues on funding, new developments of online services, geographical distribution of publications."
Arab week at the European Parliament 3-7 November
"Europe's relationship with the Arab world will be the focus of attention during "Arab week" at the European Parliament from 3-7 November. A series of debates, exhibitions and even musical performances will take place in Brussels to draw attention to the politics and culture of the Arab world. The week will also see Members of the Human Rights subcommittee and the Foreign Affairs committee discussing human rights and meeting Arab League Secretary General Amr Mussa.
Also present in Arab week will be a group of Iraqi parliamentarians who will be briefing MEPs on the situation in the country and prospects for the future.
Speaking ahead of the event the President of the European Parliament Hans-Gert Pöttering commented that: "The Arab world is not only a close neighbour of Europe but also, through the Arab communities present in the Union's member states, a component of today's European societies."
"The European Commission meets with the music industry at the World Music Expo (WOMEX) in Sevilla, Spain, on 31 October 2008, to discuss modalities to strengthen the capacities of the music sector in developing countries.
The Commission will be exchanging views with music stakeholders on how to work together to strengthen the structures of the music industry in developing countries. There are three main themes:
* investing in culture for development,
* creativity and innovation and
* intercultural dialogue." [Europa]
First European Interactive Heritage Forum on "Heritage and Dialogue"
"The Forum took place in Brussels, on 23-24 October 2008, on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the European Heritage Days in Belgium and as a contribution to 2008 – European Year of Intercultural Dialogue.
The first European Heritage Forum, organised within the context of the European Heritage Days – a joint action of the Council of Europe and the European Commission, took place in Brussels, on 23-24 October 2008, on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the European Heritage Days in Belgium and as a contribution to 2008 – European Year of Intercultural Dialogue." [Europa]
The Week Ahead: 3 to 9 November 2008
Parliamentary committee meetings - Brussels [Europa]
Culture Committee: Public Hearing:" A Bridge between cultures in the EU regions", 6 November
"Following a state of play and examples of cultural cooperation among regions, experts will debate with Members on how to build bridges of understanding, future challenges and opportunities."
Community participation in the European Audiovisual Observatory
"Ivo BELET (EPP-ED, BE) will present his draft report on Community participation in the European Audiovisual Observatory on 6 November. He will address among others some specific issues on funding, new developments of online services, geographical distribution of publications."
Arab week at the European Parliament 3-7 November
"Europe's relationship with the Arab world will be the focus of attention during "Arab week" at the European Parliament from 3-7 November. A series of debates, exhibitions and even musical performances will take place in Brussels to draw attention to the politics and culture of the Arab world. The week will also see Members of the Human Rights subcommittee and the Foreign Affairs committee discussing human rights and meeting Arab League Secretary General Amr Mussa.
Also present in Arab week will be a group of Iraqi parliamentarians who will be briefing MEPs on the situation in the country and prospects for the future.
Speaking ahead of the event the President of the European Parliament Hans-Gert Pöttering commented that: "The Arab world is not only a close neighbour of Europe but also, through the Arab communities present in the Union's member states, a component of today's European societies."
10/24/08
EU Public Affairs Monitor - 24/10/08
IGC Consultations to Continue on Future Work Program
"The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mr. Francis Gurry, and the Chairman of the Intergovernmental Committee on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore (IGC), Ambassador Rigoberto Gauto Vielman of Paraguay, said they would pursue efforts in the coming weeks to bridge differences among member states on the way to move international negotiations forward. The IGC wrapped up its 13th meeting late in the evening of October 17, 2008 after attempts to hammer out compromise texts on the future work program faltered. Despite intense negotiations, delegations were not able to agree on the working procedures required to deliver the concrete outcomes that many have called for from this Committee. The IGC’s mandate calls upon it to accelerate its work, and expectations remain strong that the Committee should produce a significant outcome by the time it is required to report back to the WIPO General Assembly in September 2009." [WIPO]
EC Legal Affairs Committee set to debate term
"No fireworks are expected, but some industry executives are already blocking out early November in their diaries as the next critical date in the copyright term story. The EC’s Legal Affairs Committee (LAC) meets in Brussels on November 4 to discuss the issue, which has so far been exercising a number of working groups.
According to one insider, the LAC is then likely to draw up a draft report, which will be put before the European Parliament.
“The word from the working groups is that Holland and the UK are currently not supporting copyright term extension. But, if the UK is isolated, it will not insist on being difficult,” he says. Poland was also thought to be against the extension of term, but another source suggests its ministers are sitting on the fence.
Once the European Parliament has looked at the work done by the LAC – and made its own amendments and readings - it will be sent down to the European Council for policy making. But the source is worried that, with the EU presidency due to change next year, the timing is tight if the Parliament goes for a second reading. “I think we are talking about the Parliament working on it in January and February, but March is really the last month that Parliament can vote,” he adds." [MusicWeek]
New Comms Minister plans report on Digital Britain
"Our new Minister For Communications, Technology And Broadcasting, former OfCom chief Stephen Carter, has announced he has commissioned a report on 'Digital Britain' which will inform government on what role it should play in the ongoing development of the digital and communications industries.
The report comes as one key digital media platform - digital audio broadcasting - faces an uncertain future following the decision by Channel 4 to bail out of its ambitious plans to launch a second national DAB network, and past decisions by some of the major radio firms who were instrumental in setting DAB up in the first place to sell off or close down their digital-only stations. The BBC remains committed to DAB, and with internet capacity issues already a concern as more people start to use rich media services like BBC iPlayer, the wider radio sector is probably advised to continue investing in a digital radio system that doesn't rely on the internet for delivery. Though with ad revenues from digital services still somewhat less than the cost of operating them, and with ad budgets set to be even further slashed in the coming year, it's not surprising commercial radio chiefs have lost their enthusiasm for DAB. Carter will also have to consider what to do about internet piracy. Although the ISPs have this year reluctantly agreed to take a more proactive role in helping record companies distribute warnings to those who access illegal sources of music online, if the warnings campaign doesn't prove to be a success and the labels start to push the ISPs towards taking more extreme action against copyright infringers - maybe even the 'three strikes and then you're cut off' proposal being considered in France - then they may need the government to come good on their promises to legislate in this area, and Carter may have to oversee that." [CMUDaily]
French Culture Minister Launches Cultural Independents Conference
"French minister of culture Christine Albanel has launched the "Arenes europeennes de l'independence" (European Arena Of Independence), a two-day conference session gathering European independent companies from the cultural field - mainly music, cinema and literature. The event will take place in Paris on Oct. 23 and 24.
"Creation is largely supported by independent companies," said Albanel, "which are largely impacted by online piracy." Albanel stressed that independent companies release 80% of new music records in France and generate 44% of the recorded market revenue and 67% of the industry jobs.
Albanel named several measures taken by her ministry during the past 18 months to support the recording industry, namely a €12 million ($15.7 million) tax-credit scheme allowing record companies to offset part of their investments on new records and a dedicated advance fund to help record companies borrow money.
"We need to go further," she added, in terms of financing and distribution. Albanel also reminded her audience about the importance of the EU to preserve fair market conditions and to rule on a more consistent VAT scheme for online cultural business."" [Billboard]
"The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mr. Francis Gurry, and the Chairman of the Intergovernmental Committee on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore (IGC), Ambassador Rigoberto Gauto Vielman of Paraguay, said they would pursue efforts in the coming weeks to bridge differences among member states on the way to move international negotiations forward. The IGC wrapped up its 13th meeting late in the evening of October 17, 2008 after attempts to hammer out compromise texts on the future work program faltered. Despite intense negotiations, delegations were not able to agree on the working procedures required to deliver the concrete outcomes that many have called for from this Committee. The IGC’s mandate calls upon it to accelerate its work, and expectations remain strong that the Committee should produce a significant outcome by the time it is required to report back to the WIPO General Assembly in September 2009." [WIPO]
EC Legal Affairs Committee set to debate term
"No fireworks are expected, but some industry executives are already blocking out early November in their diaries as the next critical date in the copyright term story. The EC’s Legal Affairs Committee (LAC) meets in Brussels on November 4 to discuss the issue, which has so far been exercising a number of working groups.
According to one insider, the LAC is then likely to draw up a draft report, which will be put before the European Parliament.
“The word from the working groups is that Holland and the UK are currently not supporting copyright term extension. But, if the UK is isolated, it will not insist on being difficult,” he says. Poland was also thought to be against the extension of term, but another source suggests its ministers are sitting on the fence.
Once the European Parliament has looked at the work done by the LAC – and made its own amendments and readings - it will be sent down to the European Council for policy making. But the source is worried that, with the EU presidency due to change next year, the timing is tight if the Parliament goes for a second reading. “I think we are talking about the Parliament working on it in January and February, but March is really the last month that Parliament can vote,” he adds." [MusicWeek]
New Comms Minister plans report on Digital Britain
"Our new Minister For Communications, Technology And Broadcasting, former OfCom chief Stephen Carter, has announced he has commissioned a report on 'Digital Britain' which will inform government on what role it should play in the ongoing development of the digital and communications industries.
The report comes as one key digital media platform - digital audio broadcasting - faces an uncertain future following the decision by Channel 4 to bail out of its ambitious plans to launch a second national DAB network, and past decisions by some of the major radio firms who were instrumental in setting DAB up in the first place to sell off or close down their digital-only stations. The BBC remains committed to DAB, and with internet capacity issues already a concern as more people start to use rich media services like BBC iPlayer, the wider radio sector is probably advised to continue investing in a digital radio system that doesn't rely on the internet for delivery. Though with ad revenues from digital services still somewhat less than the cost of operating them, and with ad budgets set to be even further slashed in the coming year, it's not surprising commercial radio chiefs have lost their enthusiasm for DAB. Carter will also have to consider what to do about internet piracy. Although the ISPs have this year reluctantly agreed to take a more proactive role in helping record companies distribute warnings to those who access illegal sources of music online, if the warnings campaign doesn't prove to be a success and the labels start to push the ISPs towards taking more extreme action against copyright infringers - maybe even the 'three strikes and then you're cut off' proposal being considered in France - then they may need the government to come good on their promises to legislate in this area, and Carter may have to oversee that." [CMUDaily]
French Culture Minister Launches Cultural Independents Conference
"French minister of culture Christine Albanel has launched the "Arenes europeennes de l'independence" (European Arena Of Independence), a two-day conference session gathering European independent companies from the cultural field - mainly music, cinema and literature. The event will take place in Paris on Oct. 23 and 24.
"Creation is largely supported by independent companies," said Albanel, "which are largely impacted by online piracy." Albanel stressed that independent companies release 80% of new music records in France and generate 44% of the recorded market revenue and 67% of the industry jobs.
Albanel named several measures taken by her ministry during the past 18 months to support the recording industry, namely a €12 million ($15.7 million) tax-credit scheme allowing record companies to offset part of their investments on new records and a dedicated advance fund to help record companies borrow money.
"We need to go further," she added, in terms of financing and distribution. Albanel also reminded her audience about the importance of the EU to preserve fair market conditions and to rule on a more consistent VAT scheme for online cultural business."" [Billboard]
EU Parliament Monitor - 24/10/08
MEPs approve new EU trade Commissioner Catherine Ashton (UK)
"The European Parliament voted 538 in favour, 40 against and 63 abstentions in favour of new EU trade Commissioner Catherine Ashton from the UK. Baroness Ashton faced a hearing at the European Parliament on Monday. She has been nominated to replace Peter Mandelson as Trade Commissioner following his appointment to the British government. MEPs questioned Baroness Ashton on the future of the Doha Round, the financial crisis, bilateral trade negotiations - and on her own experience.
Baroness Ashton will be Commissioner until the end of the current Commission's mandate - 31 October 2009." [Europa]
Summary of the hearing of Catherine Ashton (United Kingdom), Commissioner-designate for Trade
"Commissioner-designate Catherine Ashton faced a hearing at the European Parliament on Monday. She has been nominated to replace Peter Mandelson as Trade Commissioner following his appointment to the British government. MEPs questioned Baroness Ashton on the future of the Doha Round, the financial crisis, bilateral trade negotiations - and on her own experience. The outcome will be considered on Tuesday by the Conference of Presidents, with the full Parliament due to vote on Wednesday." [Europa]
Ashton wins emphatic endorsement from MEPs
MEPs back the new trade commissioner; Ashton wants better co-ordination of trade policy.
Members of the European Parliament yesterday (22 October) endorsed the appointment of Catherine Ashton as the European commissioner for trade. MEPs voted 538 in favour, 40 against, with 63 abstentions during their meeting in Strasbourg. From there, Ashton went directly to Geneva for a dinner with Pascal Lamy, the director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO), to discuss the prospects of reviving the Doha round of world trade talks.
Ashton had told MEPs on Monday evening (20 October), at a scrutiny hearing, that she would be assuring Lamy that “the WTO and pursuing a successful Doha round remain absolutely central to Europe's trade policy”. [EuropeanVoice]
EU parliament formally approves new trade commissioner
"MEPs have formally endorsed the appointment of Catherine Ashton as the EU’s new trade commissioner.
Deputies meeting in Strasbourg on Wednesday voted 538 in favour of her appointment, with 40 against and 63 abstentions. She replaces Peter Mandelson, who stepped down after four years in the job to become the new business secretary in the UK. Ashton faced a hearing in parliament on Monday in which is she is generally thought to have given a good account of her grasp of the notoriously difficult trade portfolio.She was also questioned on the future of the Doha round, the financial crisis and bilateral trade negotiations.
The conference of presidents, or group leaders, endorsed her appointment on Tuesday ahead of today’s vote by the full parliament." [TheParliament]
Alliance of Civilisations: Jorge Sampaio addresses MEPs
"Building bridges and altering misguided perceptions of other cultures are crucial in a globalised world, according Jorge Sampaio, UN High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations and a former President of Portugal, who addressed a formal sitting of the EP on Wednesday on the subject of cultural diversity, in a speech given as part of the EP's series of guest speeches for Year of Intercultural Dialogue.
In his introduction, the President of the European Parliament, Hans-Gert Pöttering, stressed the shared outlook between the UN Alliance of Civilisations and the EP, with their emphasis on the importance of cultural interaction, and argued that there was a need in the modern world for practical not just symbolic steps on this front, such as the many projects the EP had supported in the context of Year of Intercultural Dialogue.
At the start of his address, Mr Sampaio read out a short statement on behalf of the UN Secretary General, which said that "Like many other regions of the world, Europe faces multiple challenges in promoting intercultural dialogue. Migration, economic uncertainty and political tensions are putting strains on relations between different cultural, ethnic and religious groups. But it is precisely in your region, where constructive contacts over the centuries have allowed humanity to take major leaps forward, that opportunities for reconciliation and cooperation exist." Ultimately, "Cross-cultural tolerance, dialogue, respect and understanding must be pillars of the better world we are trying to build."" [Europa]
Row flares over EU commission's link with business group
"A furious row has flared over allegations of an “intimate” relationship between the commission’s trade directorate and the organisation representing European SMEs. It follows claims by a left-wing Swedish MEP of a possible conflict of interest between the influential directorate and Businesseurope. GUE/NGL member Jens Holm sets out his allegations in a letter to new EU trade commissioner Catherine Ashton.
But Philippe De Buck, director general of Businesseurope, hit back on Thursday, telling this website, “What is the problem?
“Yes, we have a close relationship with DG trade – they need us but, equally, we need them. I make no secret of that.
“However, I want to stress that all dealings between my organisation and the commission are done openly, publicly and transparently, and I object to these comments,” said De Buck, formerly the organisation’s secretary general." [TheParliament]
Click here to read the European Parliament Monitor
"The European Parliament voted 538 in favour, 40 against and 63 abstentions in favour of new EU trade Commissioner Catherine Ashton from the UK. Baroness Ashton faced a hearing at the European Parliament on Monday. She has been nominated to replace Peter Mandelson as Trade Commissioner following his appointment to the British government. MEPs questioned Baroness Ashton on the future of the Doha Round, the financial crisis, bilateral trade negotiations - and on her own experience.
Baroness Ashton will be Commissioner until the end of the current Commission's mandate - 31 October 2009." [Europa]
Summary of the hearing of Catherine Ashton (United Kingdom), Commissioner-designate for Trade
"Commissioner-designate Catherine Ashton faced a hearing at the European Parliament on Monday. She has been nominated to replace Peter Mandelson as Trade Commissioner following his appointment to the British government. MEPs questioned Baroness Ashton on the future of the Doha Round, the financial crisis, bilateral trade negotiations - and on her own experience. The outcome will be considered on Tuesday by the Conference of Presidents, with the full Parliament due to vote on Wednesday." [Europa]
Ashton wins emphatic endorsement from MEPs
MEPs back the new trade commissioner; Ashton wants better co-ordination of trade policy.
Members of the European Parliament yesterday (22 October) endorsed the appointment of Catherine Ashton as the European commissioner for trade. MEPs voted 538 in favour, 40 against, with 63 abstentions during their meeting in Strasbourg. From there, Ashton went directly to Geneva for a dinner with Pascal Lamy, the director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO), to discuss the prospects of reviving the Doha round of world trade talks.
Ashton had told MEPs on Monday evening (20 October), at a scrutiny hearing, that she would be assuring Lamy that “the WTO and pursuing a successful Doha round remain absolutely central to Europe's trade policy”. [EuropeanVoice]
EU parliament formally approves new trade commissioner
"MEPs have formally endorsed the appointment of Catherine Ashton as the EU’s new trade commissioner.
Deputies meeting in Strasbourg on Wednesday voted 538 in favour of her appointment, with 40 against and 63 abstentions. She replaces Peter Mandelson, who stepped down after four years in the job to become the new business secretary in the UK. Ashton faced a hearing in parliament on Monday in which is she is generally thought to have given a good account of her grasp of the notoriously difficult trade portfolio.She was also questioned on the future of the Doha round, the financial crisis and bilateral trade negotiations.
The conference of presidents, or group leaders, endorsed her appointment on Tuesday ahead of today’s vote by the full parliament." [TheParliament]
Alliance of Civilisations: Jorge Sampaio addresses MEPs
"Building bridges and altering misguided perceptions of other cultures are crucial in a globalised world, according Jorge Sampaio, UN High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations and a former President of Portugal, who addressed a formal sitting of the EP on Wednesday on the subject of cultural diversity, in a speech given as part of the EP's series of guest speeches for Year of Intercultural Dialogue.
In his introduction, the President of the European Parliament, Hans-Gert Pöttering, stressed the shared outlook between the UN Alliance of Civilisations and the EP, with their emphasis on the importance of cultural interaction, and argued that there was a need in the modern world for practical not just symbolic steps on this front, such as the many projects the EP had supported in the context of Year of Intercultural Dialogue.
At the start of his address, Mr Sampaio read out a short statement on behalf of the UN Secretary General, which said that "Like many other regions of the world, Europe faces multiple challenges in promoting intercultural dialogue. Migration, economic uncertainty and political tensions are putting strains on relations between different cultural, ethnic and religious groups. But it is precisely in your region, where constructive contacts over the centuries have allowed humanity to take major leaps forward, that opportunities for reconciliation and cooperation exist." Ultimately, "Cross-cultural tolerance, dialogue, respect and understanding must be pillars of the better world we are trying to build."" [Europa]
Row flares over EU commission's link with business group
"A furious row has flared over allegations of an “intimate” relationship between the commission’s trade directorate and the organisation representing European SMEs. It follows claims by a left-wing Swedish MEP of a possible conflict of interest between the influential directorate and Businesseurope. GUE/NGL member Jens Holm sets out his allegations in a letter to new EU trade commissioner Catherine Ashton.
But Philippe De Buck, director general of Businesseurope, hit back on Thursday, telling this website, “What is the problem?
“Yes, we have a close relationship with DG trade – they need us but, equally, we need them. I make no secret of that.
“However, I want to stress that all dealings between my organisation and the commission are done openly, publicly and transparently, and I object to these comments,” said De Buck, formerly the organisation’s secretary general." [TheParliament]
Click here to read the European Parliament Monitor
10/10/08
EU Public Affairs Monitor - 10/10/08
WIPO
WIPO Expands its Distance Learning Program
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has added five new multilingual courses to the distance learning program offered by its Worldwide Academy. The new courses will cover Arbitration and Mediation Procedure, Patents, Patent Information Search, Basics of Patent Drafting, and Trademarks. [WIPO]
WIPO and ARIPO Sign MOU to Expand Cooperation
The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mr. Francis Gurry, and his counterpart from the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), Mr. Gift H. Sibanda, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on October 2, 2008 in Geneva, to strengthen and expand cooperation between the two organizations. The MOU covers traditional areas of cooperation relating to capacity building, as well as a special project to boost ARIPO’s patent information capacity. [WIPO]
CISAC
CISAC Appeals the European Commission’s Competition Decision
CISAC, the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers, has recently lodged an appeal against the European Commission Decision of July 16 in the Court of First instance of the European Communities. Contrary to the European Commission’s findings in its Decision, CISAC considers European authors’ societies have not engaged in concerted practice that restrict competition and have therefore not violated European competition law provisions. The network of authors’ societies – organised through reciprocal representation agreements between societies – best serve creators’ interest. It is the result of pure common sense for the efficient management of creators’ rights worldwide and not a concerted practice to prevent competition, as alleged by the Commission. [CISAC]
EU OBSERVER
Commission backs internet users over content providers
The European Parliament's rejection of a proposed "three strikes" law - that would see internet users have their connection cut off if they have been found to repeatedly violate copyright - must be respected, the commission said at an EUobserver-organised conference on internet rights.
"We have to respect the view of the parliament," information society commissioner Viviane Reding said at the Brussels event on Wednesday (8 October), referring to the "Bono Amendment" approved on 24 September by a large majority of MEPs in consideration of a wider telecoms bill.
The amendment states that: "No restriction may be imposed on the rights and freedoms of end users ... without a prior ruling by the judicial authorities" - language that forbids moves such as those currently under consideration by French lawmakers. [EUObserver]
EUROPEAN VOICE
Illegal downloads: France in bid to keep ‘three strikes' approach
France rejects European Parliament attempts to put courts in charge of cutting off internet services.France is fighting to retain executive powers to cut off internet users who persistently make illegal downloads, in the face of European Parliament attempts to require authorisation from courts for any interruption of services. French President Nicolas Sarkozy wrote to European Commission President José Manuel Barroso on Friday (3 October), urging rejection of an amendment approved by a majority of the European Parliament on 24 September in its debate on telecoms regulation. [EuropeanVoice]
MUSIC WEEK
CISAC, the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers, has lodged an appeal against the recent European Commission ruling against the sector.
Contrary to the European Commission’s findings in its July 16 ruling, CISAC considers European authors’ societies have not engaged in concerted practice that restrict competition and have, therefore, not violated European competition law provisions.
The move coincides with a raft of appeals being made to the EC, which has accused collection societies of operating membership restrictions and territorial exclusivity, by 22 other authors’ societies, including the UK’s PRS.
CISAC claims the EC decision creates a climate of “legal uncertainty” for rights-owners and users and has been to put an end to promising initiatives to develop an alternative and consensual pan-European licensing model for online use of creative content. CISAC director general Eric Baptiste says, “Since the pioneering Santiago agreements in 2000, CISAC and its members have long been committed to providing a new framework for multi-territorial licensing of musical works. Unfortunately, the confusing and flawed July Decision is not part of the solution but part of the problem. We hope that the court of first instance will provide the clarity that rights holders, music users and the public need for a thriving online content market in the EEA.” [MusicWeek]
Popkomm: Gibb blasts EC
Robin Gibb has delivered a hard hitting keynote speech to open Popkomm 2008 criticising the European Commission’s recent move against the way collecting societies operate. The president of CISAC, the international association for Authors Collection Societies, questioned why the Commission was “bothering with this at all”.
Gibb told the conference, which was opened by Minister of State for Culture Bernd Neumann, that the Commission is accusing the societies of using concerted practice to place restrictions on multi territorial licensing in the fields of satellite, cable and internet transmission. Gibb said, “According to the Commission this was done by the societies to prevent competition between societies. The decision does not ban reciprocal arrangements on a bilateral basis but it forbids societies from talking together on a multi lateral basis. This is obviously daft and makes international trade in music licensing even more difficult than before.” He also claimed that the Commission’s move “has the effect (of) blocking the licensing of new digital services". He added, "It has destroyed the current system for multi-territorial licences and has forbidden the societies to discuss any new way forward.” [MusicWeek]
WIPO Expands its Distance Learning Program
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has added five new multilingual courses to the distance learning program offered by its Worldwide Academy. The new courses will cover Arbitration and Mediation Procedure, Patents, Patent Information Search, Basics of Patent Drafting, and Trademarks. [WIPO]
WIPO and ARIPO Sign MOU to Expand Cooperation
The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mr. Francis Gurry, and his counterpart from the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), Mr. Gift H. Sibanda, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on October 2, 2008 in Geneva, to strengthen and expand cooperation between the two organizations. The MOU covers traditional areas of cooperation relating to capacity building, as well as a special project to boost ARIPO’s patent information capacity. [WIPO]
CISAC
CISAC Appeals the European Commission’s Competition Decision
CISAC, the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers, has recently lodged an appeal against the European Commission Decision of July 16 in the Court of First instance of the European Communities. Contrary to the European Commission’s findings in its Decision, CISAC considers European authors’ societies have not engaged in concerted practice that restrict competition and have therefore not violated European competition law provisions. The network of authors’ societies – organised through reciprocal representation agreements between societies – best serve creators’ interest. It is the result of pure common sense for the efficient management of creators’ rights worldwide and not a concerted practice to prevent competition, as alleged by the Commission. [CISAC]
EU OBSERVER
Commission backs internet users over content providers
The European Parliament's rejection of a proposed "three strikes" law - that would see internet users have their connection cut off if they have been found to repeatedly violate copyright - must be respected, the commission said at an EUobserver-organised conference on internet rights.
"We have to respect the view of the parliament," information society commissioner Viviane Reding said at the Brussels event on Wednesday (8 October), referring to the "Bono Amendment" approved on 24 September by a large majority of MEPs in consideration of a wider telecoms bill.
The amendment states that: "No restriction may be imposed on the rights and freedoms of end users ... without a prior ruling by the judicial authorities" - language that forbids moves such as those currently under consideration by French lawmakers. [EUObserver]
EUROPEAN VOICE
Illegal downloads: France in bid to keep ‘three strikes' approach
France rejects European Parliament attempts to put courts in charge of cutting off internet services.France is fighting to retain executive powers to cut off internet users who persistently make illegal downloads, in the face of European Parliament attempts to require authorisation from courts for any interruption of services. French President Nicolas Sarkozy wrote to European Commission President José Manuel Barroso on Friday (3 October), urging rejection of an amendment approved by a majority of the European Parliament on 24 September in its debate on telecoms regulation. [EuropeanVoice]
MUSIC WEEK
CISAC, the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers, has lodged an appeal against the recent European Commission ruling against the sector.
Contrary to the European Commission’s findings in its July 16 ruling, CISAC considers European authors’ societies have not engaged in concerted practice that restrict competition and have, therefore, not violated European competition law provisions.
The move coincides with a raft of appeals being made to the EC, which has accused collection societies of operating membership restrictions and territorial exclusivity, by 22 other authors’ societies, including the UK’s PRS.
CISAC claims the EC decision creates a climate of “legal uncertainty” for rights-owners and users and has been to put an end to promising initiatives to develop an alternative and consensual pan-European licensing model for online use of creative content. CISAC director general Eric Baptiste says, “Since the pioneering Santiago agreements in 2000, CISAC and its members have long been committed to providing a new framework for multi-territorial licensing of musical works. Unfortunately, the confusing and flawed July Decision is not part of the solution but part of the problem. We hope that the court of first instance will provide the clarity that rights holders, music users and the public need for a thriving online content market in the EEA.” [MusicWeek]
Popkomm: Gibb blasts EC
Robin Gibb has delivered a hard hitting keynote speech to open Popkomm 2008 criticising the European Commission’s recent move against the way collecting societies operate. The president of CISAC, the international association for Authors Collection Societies, questioned why the Commission was “bothering with this at all”.
Gibb told the conference, which was opened by Minister of State for Culture Bernd Neumann, that the Commission is accusing the societies of using concerted practice to place restrictions on multi territorial licensing in the fields of satellite, cable and internet transmission. Gibb said, “According to the Commission this was done by the societies to prevent competition between societies. The decision does not ban reciprocal arrangements on a bilateral basis but it forbids societies from talking together on a multi lateral basis. This is obviously daft and makes international trade in music licensing even more difficult than before.” He also claimed that the Commission’s move “has the effect (of) blocking the licensing of new digital services". He added, "It has destroyed the current system for multi-territorial licences and has forbidden the societies to discuss any new way forward.” [MusicWeek]
9/30/08
EU Commission - Internal Market : 30/09/08
Comment by the Max-Plank Institute on the Commission's Proposal for a Directive to Amend Directive 2006/116 EC of the European Parliament and Council Concerning the Term of Protection for Copyright and Related Rights
Nor can any objection be raised to the Commission's description of the challenges faced by the sound recording industry by new - illegal - ways of using performances on the Internet. However, no mention is made of a number of conceivable specific options. Instead, the Commission also limited its considerations on the producers' situation to the said prolongation of the period of protection, although there is no objective relationship whatsoever between the duration of the performance rights and the user behaviour objected to." [SSRN]
9/26/08
EU Commission: Information and Society 26/09/08
Telecoms Reform: Parliament vote paves way for Single Telecoms Market in Europe 24/09/08
Today the European Parliament in its plenary session voted on the European Commission's proposals of November 2007 to reform the EU Telecom rules, in place since 2003. The EU Telecoms Reform aims to create a Single EU Telecoms Market with improved rights for consumers and businesses by reinforcing competition and investment and boosting the take-up of cross-border services and wireless high-speed broadband for all. [Europa]
Broadband: Commission consults on regulatory strategy to promote high-speed Next Generation Access networks in Europe
The European Commission has launched a public consultation on the regulatory principles to be applied by EU Member States to Next Generation Access broadband networks (NGA). NGA optical fibre-based networks enable bitrates several times higher than those currently available on traditional copper wire networks. NGAs are required to deliver high-definition content (such as high definition television) and interactive applications. The objective of a common regulatory framework for NGA is to foster a consistent treatment of operators in the EU and thereby ensure the necessary regulatory predictability to invest. The Commission is consulting on the basis of a draft Recommendation, addressed to the regulators in the 27 EU Member States and suggesting definitions for harmonized categories of regulated services, access conditions, rates of return and appropriate risk premiums. The public consultation will be open until 14th November 2008. The Commission will then finalise the Recommendation in the light of comments received and formally adopt it in 2009. [Europa]
Realising the potential of Europe's single market in telecoms for consumers and business
Viviane Reding: Member of the European Commission responsible for Information Society and Media
CER breakfast seminar, Brussels, 16 September 2008 [Europa]
Commission consults on how to put Europe into the lead of the transition to Web 3.0
Europe could take the lead in the next generation of the Internet. The European Commission today outlined the main steps that Europe has to take to respond to the next wave of the Information Revolution that will intensify in the coming years due to trends such as social networking, the decisive shift to on-line business services, nomadic services based on GPS and mobile TV and the growth of smart tags. The report shows that Europe is well placed to exploit these trends because of its policies to support open and pro-competitive telecom networks as well as privacy and security. A public consultation has been launched today by the Commission on the policy and private sector responses to these opportunities. The Commission report also unveils a new Broadband Performance Index (BPI) that compares national performance on key measures such as broadband speed, price, competition and coverage. Sweden and the Netherlands top this European broadband league, which complements the more traditional broadband penetration index used so far by telecoms regulators. [Europa]
Social Networking Sites: Commissioner Reding stresses their economic and societal importance for Europe 26/09/08
Viviane Reding, Commissioner for Information Society and Media, will today give a speech on Social Networking. It will be the first public statement of the Commissioner on this subject. The speech will be given at today's Safer Internet Forum that takes place in Luxembourg and focuses on Safer Internet and children this year. Commissioner Reding will underline the importance of self-regulation and will also meet representatives of the social networking companies Myspace and Dailymotion. [Europa]
Putting Europe high on the global map of science and technology: Commission advocates new international strategy
Today, the European Commission called on governments to jointly develop a strategy for international cooperation in science and technology. It proposed a strategic framework for jointly strengthening science and technology cooperation with non-EU countries, notably in the field of Information and Communication Technologies where Europe is a strong exporter. The Commission's objective is to contribute to sustainable development worldwide while at the same time improving Europe’s competitiveness in science and technology. The Commission invites Member States to define together, rather than in isolation, priority research and technology areas where a coherent EU effort would have more impact. [Europa]
Social Networking in Europe: success and challenges
Viviane Reding, Member of the European Commission responsible for Information Society and Media
Safer Internet Forum, Luxembourg, 26 September 2008 [Europa]
Today the European Parliament in its plenary session voted on the European Commission's proposals of November 2007 to reform the EU Telecom rules, in place since 2003. The EU Telecoms Reform aims to create a Single EU Telecoms Market with improved rights for consumers and businesses by reinforcing competition and investment and boosting the take-up of cross-border services and wireless high-speed broadband for all. [Europa]
Broadband: Commission consults on regulatory strategy to promote high-speed Next Generation Access networks in Europe
The European Commission has launched a public consultation on the regulatory principles to be applied by EU Member States to Next Generation Access broadband networks (NGA). NGA optical fibre-based networks enable bitrates several times higher than those currently available on traditional copper wire networks. NGAs are required to deliver high-definition content (such as high definition television) and interactive applications. The objective of a common regulatory framework for NGA is to foster a consistent treatment of operators in the EU and thereby ensure the necessary regulatory predictability to invest. The Commission is consulting on the basis of a draft Recommendation, addressed to the regulators in the 27 EU Member States and suggesting definitions for harmonized categories of regulated services, access conditions, rates of return and appropriate risk premiums. The public consultation will be open until 14th November 2008. The Commission will then finalise the Recommendation in the light of comments received and formally adopt it in 2009. [Europa]
Realising the potential of Europe's single market in telecoms for consumers and business
Viviane Reding: Member of the European Commission responsible for Information Society and Media
CER breakfast seminar, Brussels, 16 September 2008 [Europa]
Commission consults on how to put Europe into the lead of the transition to Web 3.0
Europe could take the lead in the next generation of the Internet. The European Commission today outlined the main steps that Europe has to take to respond to the next wave of the Information Revolution that will intensify in the coming years due to trends such as social networking, the decisive shift to on-line business services, nomadic services based on GPS and mobile TV and the growth of smart tags. The report shows that Europe is well placed to exploit these trends because of its policies to support open and pro-competitive telecom networks as well as privacy and security. A public consultation has been launched today by the Commission on the policy and private sector responses to these opportunities. The Commission report also unveils a new Broadband Performance Index (BPI) that compares national performance on key measures such as broadband speed, price, competition and coverage. Sweden and the Netherlands top this European broadband league, which complements the more traditional broadband penetration index used so far by telecoms regulators. [Europa]
Social Networking Sites: Commissioner Reding stresses their economic and societal importance for Europe 26/09/08
Viviane Reding, Commissioner for Information Society and Media, will today give a speech on Social Networking. It will be the first public statement of the Commissioner on this subject. The speech will be given at today's Safer Internet Forum that takes place in Luxembourg and focuses on Safer Internet and children this year. Commissioner Reding will underline the importance of self-regulation and will also meet representatives of the social networking companies Myspace and Dailymotion. [Europa]
Putting Europe high on the global map of science and technology: Commission advocates new international strategy
Today, the European Commission called on governments to jointly develop a strategy for international cooperation in science and technology. It proposed a strategic framework for jointly strengthening science and technology cooperation with non-EU countries, notably in the field of Information and Communication Technologies where Europe is a strong exporter. The Commission's objective is to contribute to sustainable development worldwide while at the same time improving Europe’s competitiveness in science and technology. The Commission invites Member States to define together, rather than in isolation, priority research and technology areas where a coherent EU effort would have more impact. [Europa]
Social Networking in Europe: success and challenges
Viviane Reding, Member of the European Commission responsible for Information Society and Media
Safer Internet Forum, Luxembourg, 26 September 2008 [Europa]
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