MISSION

The Committee promotes the consistent, effective, and forward-looking development of trademark law and practice within the European Union. The Committee monitors and assesses differences between Member States in the light of the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union and the evolving EU legal framework. It identifies areas in which further harmonisation, convergence of practices or legislative clarification may be required. Drawing on the expertise of private practitioners and in-house counsel from EU and non-EU countries, the Committee provides a forum for the exchange of perspectives on issues affecting the European trademark system. Developments outside the EU are also monitored and analysed, in recognition of the importance of promoting greater consistency of trademark law and practice at international level.

DESCRIPTION

To pursue its mission, the Committee monitors, reviews and analyses developments in EU trademark law, regulations, directives, case law and national practices. The Committee conducts pan-European surveys to establish a reliable knowledge base for benchmarking, best practices and position papers. It also identifies gaps, emerging challenges and inconsistencies in the existing legal framework and contributes to policy discussions concerning the future development of European trademark law and practice. The Committee regularly supports and, where appropriate, represents ECTA in its relations with EUIPO, WIPO, the European Commission and sister organisations. Through these activities, it contributes to initiatives aimed at improving the trademark system for the benefit of rights holders, practitioners and users.