Combating Intellectual Property Crime: Eurojust’s Efforts

Introduction

The European Union’s law enforcement agency, Eurojust, plays a crucial role in supporting national judicial authorities in combating infringements of intellectual property rights. This article highlights Eurojust’s efforts to tackle intellectual property crime and promote cooperation among EU member states.

Eurojust’s Role in Combating Intellectual Property Crime

• Supports national judicial authorities in dealing with cross-border cases related to intellectual property infringement
• Works closely with other EU agencies, such as the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), to share best practices and coordinate efforts

Notable Cases: Tackling Online Piracy

In 2020, Eurojust supported several large-scale operations targeting illegal online streaming services and pirate-copied movies and TV series. These operations resulted in significant arrests, seizures, and convictions across the EU.

Cooperation with EUIPO: Boosting Efforts Against IP Infringement

In 2021, Eurojust established the Intellectual Property Crime Project (IPC Project) with EUIPO to enhance cooperation against intellectual property infringements across the EU. This project aims to:

• Share intelligence and best practices on combating IP crime
• Coordinate efforts among EU member states to tackle cross-border cases
• Support national authorities in dealing with complex IP infringement cases

Publications: Resources for Combating Intellectual Property Crime

Eurojust’s webpage provides access to various publications related to intellectual property crime, including reports on:

• Money laundering and corruption
• Environmental crime
• Best practices for combating IP infringement

These resources offer valuable insights and information for law enforcement agencies, national authorities, and other stakeholders working to combat intellectual property crime.