EUBOF Report on Intellectual Property Management published

At a time when digital innovation is at the forefront of policy discussions, the management and protection of intellectual property (IP) has become a critical challenge for creators, businesses, and legal entities alike. This report by the EU Blockchain Observatory and Forum looks at the transformative potential of blockchain technology in revolutionising IP management. 

However, the integration of blockchain into IP management faces challenges. In this report, we identify and present key hurdles, such as the need for comprehensive legal frameworks that recognise and enforce blockchain transactions, the standardisation of different blockchain platforms to ensure interoperability, and the technical scalability required for widespread adoption.

Despite these challenges, the report is optimistic about the future of blockchain in IP management. It calls for a collaborative approach between policymakers, technologists, IP owners, and IP users to create an environment conducive to innovation while protecting creators’ rights. The development of supportive regulatory frameworks, together with advances in blockchain technology will be crucial to realising the full potential of blockchain for the management of intellectual property.

In conclusion, the report highlights the significant opportunities that blockchain offers for improving the efficiency, transparency, and fairness of IP management. It encourages continued research, development, and cross-sector dialogue to overcome the existing challenges and fully exploit the benefits of these technologies.

The report was authored The EU Blockchain Observatory and Forum team:

• Tonia Damvakeraki, Managing Director of EUBOF (Netcompany-Intrasoft)
• Catarina Ferreira da Silva, Associate Professor with Habilitation, Director of the Information Sciences, Technologies and Architecture Research Centre, ISCTE - University Institute of Lisbon
• Sergio Gonzalez Miranda, EU Blockchain Observatory and Forum Expert Panel
• Dr Ioannis Revolidis, Lecturer, Department of Media, Communications & Technology Law, Faculty of Laws & Centre for Distributed Ledger Technologies, University of Malta
• Daniel Szego, DLT Architect, EU Blockchain Observatory and Forum Expert Panel

This report would not have been possible without the contributions and support of Philippe Rixhon Associates.

Download the report here