After adoption of its Resolution on ACTA in March 2010, the European Parliament sends another clear signal to the Commission confirming that it closely scrutinises both the negotiating process and the contents of ACTA.
A large majority of MEPs signed a written declaration calling on the Commission to make all documents relating to the ongoing negotiations publicly available. The declaration argues that the agreement should not impose changes in the current harmonised EU copyright, patent and trademark laws or weaken fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and the right to privacy.
In particular, it takes a clear position in favor of the hosting liability exemption and against any filtering or monitoring obligations: 5. Takes the view that internet service providers should not bear liability for the data they transmit or host through their services to an extent that would necessitate prior surveillance or filtering of such data; which puts additional pressure on the Commission not to change or reinterpret the EU acquis through ACTA.
This is a further step forward in raising awareness about the importance of preserving the intermediary liability regime, both internationally and within the context of the review of important EU legislation such as the IPR enforcement Directive and the E-commerce Directive.