EuroLinux Launches Public Forum and Knowledge Base for Software Patent Consultation

The EuroLinux Alliance has launched a public forum and knowledge base to help European authorities conduct an open consultation on the economic and social impact of software patents in Europe. The General Directorate for Internal Market has recognized the potential negative impact of software patents on innovation, their danger for small and medium enterprises, and the requirement for Europe to conduct in-depth research on the economic impact of software patents before changing European Patent Law. EuroLinux is urging European consumers, IT professionals, and companies to send public statements, reports, and position papers on software patents to consultation@eurolinux.org. The EuroLinux public forum and knowledge base are currently the best guarantee for a transparent and democratic debate on software patents in Europe.