Last month saw a significant step forward towards the
introduction of a new framework and regulations for protecting
registered designs in Europe as the Council of the European Union
formally adopted new rules which are intended to bring design
protection in Europe up to date with changes in technology since
the original framework was introduced.
Background of EU Design Law
We have been able to protect registered designs in Europe since
2003. However, in that time, designs have changed significantly
both in terms of the actual designs themselves, but also the
products or media through which designs are created and used.
Modernisation of the regulations to better protect designs in the
digital space has been long overdue. The package of changes being
introduced looks to do this, and also to make further changes
to make designs in Europe even easier and more cost- effective
for individuals and small businesses.
