Today's global information society and the rapid pace of technological developments characterised by works capable of being digitised, transmitted and reproduced instantaneously by broadcasting, cabling or over computer networks is posing significant challenges for intellectual property rights holders, consumers and policymakers. Modern intellectual property law faces new issues related to the conflict between several fundamental rights such as access to education, freedom of expression and the right of privacy. The advent of modern technologies that recognise no national boundaries requires clear rules on applicable law and effective enforcement measures.

This one-day conference will give the opportunity to look at how the European Union through its policies, legislation and case law is tackling emerging intellectual property issues in the field of competition law, collective management of copyright and right of privacy. New EU initiatives related to the impact of copyright on education and research in the knowledge economy and the pan-European licensing of music rights will also be discussed.