The Democratic Deficit revisited

A few weeks ago the European Parliament voted on the Telecoms Package.

At the last minute the EP managed to stop parts (created by the copyright lobby) of the package aimed to filter the internet and to close down internet access (without judicial process) for people engaged in e.g. file sharing. So far, so good.

Now, it turns out, the European Commission seems to have removed all references to this EP-decision in its working papers – preparing the Telecoms Package for a second reading in the EP or an OK in the Council. This we where not supposed to know. But the document leaked out...

It is not to bold to guess that this is the work of the French EU presidency and its friends in the copyright lobby. They simply will not take no for an answer. Not even a clear no from the EP.

(Personally, I am pro copyright. But I will not accept mass survilance, limitations in citizens rights or give up the freedom of the internet. And I think it is a really bad idea to use laws to save an outdated business model.)

Read more and find the relevant links at icmpecho.com.»

What the French are up to...

Information is beginning to leak on the French governments plans for its EU Presidentcy.

Among other things, they want exceptions from Free Trade Agreements – when it comes to culture, including film and TV.

The reason is to protect and to promote "domestic" culture.

In other words: To the French, what makes culture important is where it is created, not the content!

Cultural protectionism is a term that comes to mind.

The French approach is an narrow minded and arrogant dismissal of other peoples thoughts, creativity and creations.

Baguette!