The European Commission will hold a conference on counterfeiting and piracy on 13 May 2008. Speakers will cover various topics including the effects on economic growth and job creation in Europe, risks to citizens' health and safety and measures which could enhance the fight against fake goods. Members of the European Parliament as well as a wide range of stakeholders representing business, public administrations and civil society are expected to attend.
[European Commission Press Release]

Charlie McCreevy, European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services: Speech on the occasion of World Intellectual Property Day, World Intellectual Property Day Meeting, Dublin, Ireland, 28 April 2008
[Speech]

The trade mark proprietor cannot, however, prohibit third parties from using descriptive indications, provided that such use is fair.
[European Court of Justice Press Release]

The European Commission has published a White Paper suggesting a new model for achieving compensation for consumers and businesses who are the victims of antitrust violations (breaches of EC Treaty rules on restrictive business practices and abuse of dominant market positions). At present, there are serious obstacles in most EU Member States that discourage consumers and businesses from claiming compensation in court in private antitrust damages actions. The White Paper includes suggestions to make damages claims by victims more efficient, whilst ensuring respect for European legal systems and traditions. The model outlined by the European Commission is based on compensation through single damages for the harm suffered. The White Paper's other key recommendations cover collective redress, disclosure of evidence and the effect of final decisions of competition authorities in subsequent damages actions. The recommendations balance rights and obligations of both the claimant and the defendant and include safeguards against abuses of litigation. Interested parties are invited to comment on the recommendations until 15 July 2008. The European Commission will then reflect on concrete measures in the light of responses to the White Paper.
[European Commission Press Release]

Neelie Kroes, European Commissioner for Competition Policy: Policy paper on compensating victims of competition breaches, Opening remarks at press conference, Brussels, 3rd April 2008
[Speech]

Neelie Kroes, European Commissioner for Competition Policy: EU & US antitrust policies – our shared belief in competitive markets, Opening remarks at 56th Annual Spring Meeting of The American Bar Association Section of Antitrust Law, Washington, D.C, 28th March 2008
[Speech]