Review of EU Legal Acts
Directive on Consumer Rights (2011/83/EU)
This directive harmonizes various aspects of consumer protection within the EU, particularly concerning distance and off-premises contracts. Key provisions include enhanced information requirements for traders before a contract is concluded, a 14-day right of withdrawal for consumers in distance and off-premises contracts, and regulations regarding the delivery of goods and digital content. It aims to boost consumer confidence in cross-border shopping and ensure a high level of consumer protection across the EU.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (2016/679)
The GDPR sets a comprehensive framework for the processing of personal data within the EU. It applies to all organizations operating within the EU and those processing data of EU residents. Key elements include principles relating to processing of personal data, rights of data subjects (such as the right to access, rectification, and erasure), obligations on data controllers and processors, and the establishment of independent supervisory authorities to enforce the regulation. It aims to protect individuals’ fundamental rights and freedoms, particularly their right to the protection of personal data.
Directive on Copyright in the Digital Single Market (2019/790)
This directive modernizes EU copyright rules to address the challenges and opportunities of the digital environment. Key provisions include measures to adapt exceptions and limitations to copyright to digital and cross-border uses, facilitating licensing practices, and addressing the “value gap” between content creators and online platforms. Notably, Article 13 (now Article 17) introduces obligations for online platforms to prevent the unauthorized uploading of copyrighted material. The directive seeks to create a fairer and more sustainable marketplace for content creators, the press and publishers.
