Intellectual Property - New Rules for .NL Domainnames

On 14 October 1996 the Stichting Internet Domein Registratie NL ("Stichting"), the Dutch authority in charge of domainname registration under the .nl domain, published new rules for the registration of domainnames in the Netherlands. The new rules mark a departure from the previous system where the choice of domainnames was restricted. Under the new rules it is now possible to register a trademark or a second tradename as a domainname. In addition, all other words may be registered as domainnames, with the exception of words and generic names which may create confusion with the public, geographical indications (countrynames are reserved for embassies; names of provinces and municipalities for the respective authorities) as well as names which are contrary to public order or public morality.