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Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, addressed the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe after his release from years of incarceration. He expressed gratitude for the support he received and highlighted the challenges faced by journalists and publishers in the current climate. Assange pleaded guilty to journalism and emphasized the importance of freedom of expression and the protection of human liberties. The speech shed light on the global efforts made to secure his release and the implications for investigative journalism and freedom of information. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Der Handel is the property of dfv Mediengruppe and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Europol has released a report titled "Decoding the EU's most threatening criminal networks," which analyzes the characteristics and activities of criminal networks that pose the highest threat in Europe. The report identifies 821 criminal networks with over 25,000 members involved in crimes such as drug trafficking, migrant smuggling, and property crime. These networks are agile, operate across borders, have control over their criminal activities, and focus on specific criminal businesses. The report also highlights the international composition of these networks, with members from multiple nationalities, although their core activities are geographically focused. The text discusses the activities and impact of the most threatening criminal networks in the EU, including drug trafficking, corruption, violence, and intimidation. These networks cause significant damage to the EU's internal security, rule of law, and economy. The text provides examples of criminal networks involved in drug trafficking and money laundering, and highlights Dubai as a coordination center for high-ranking gang members. The networks operate independently or in equal partnerships, have full control over their activities, and use countermeasures to avoid detection by law enforcement. The text emphasizes the international reach of these networks and the need for policymakers and law enforcement to address the threat they pose. [Extracted from the article]

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued provisional measures against Israel in response to allegations of genocide in the Gaza Strip. South Africa filed an application with the ICJ, requesting urgent action. The Court has outlined six preliminary measures, including Israel's obligation to prevent acts of genocide and provide basic services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza. The Court did not order Israel to stop its military operations but emphasized the need to prevent and punish incitement to genocide. The ruling has received mixed reactions, with Israelis seeing it as a victory and Palestinians disappointed that Israel was not ordered to cease its bombardment. The US supports Israel's right to self-defense, while the UK is concerned about the impact on achieving a ceasefire. In a separate case, a Kenyan murder suspect has escaped custody in Kenya while awaiting extradition, and there are suspicions of corruption within the police force. [Extracted from the article]

European law is having an increasing impact on private enforcement of consumer law in the Member States. Firstly, the European principles of equivalence and effectiveness acted as levers for the CJEU to strengthen the obligation imposed on national courts to apply European consumer law of their own motion ('ex officio control'). The scope and content of this evolution in case law also impacts the functioning of public enforcement mechanisms. Secondly, the European threefold obligation that national sanctions have to be effective, proportionate and dissuasive has been further developed by the CJEU, especially in the field of consumer protection. These enforcement principles interplay and have a bearing on both private and public enforcement. Thirdly, the European legislator recently introduced new enforcement mechanisms for consumer law (e.g., Omnibus Directive, Consumer Protection and Cooperation (CPC)-regulation, Directive on representative actions) which show a new emphasis on public enforcement especially in the context of the digitalization of the market. These developments in both European case law and legislation are creating new functions and obligations for national courts and authorities. They also redefine the existing interplay between private and public enforcement. It begs the question which balance ought to be struck between private and public enforcement in the Member States in view of the empowerment of consumers in the digital era? Our contribution will highlight the impact on private and public enforcement of the aforementioned evolutions in EU law and will provide recommendations on how to balance both private and public enforcement in the field of consumer law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy communities are one of the legal tools to spread the prosumer figure, called “active customer”. The contribution aims to focus on their governance by the “effectively controlled by members or shareholders” analysis and show how this element helps or not the prosumer figure concretisation, in European and French energy law [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the efforts of the Council of Europe to accommodate the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) within its legal framework. The EPPO is responsible for investigating and prosecuting offenses against the EU's financial interests. The Council of Europe has been working on integrating the EPPO within the existing framework of international assistance in criminal matters. The article also mentions the possibility of the EU acceding to the Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters. The text acknowledges controversies surrounding the EPPO and notes a pending case before the Court of Justice of the European Union. [Extracted from the article]

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This article discusses the digitalization of contract law in Europe, specifically focusing on the liability of platforms like Amazon for damages caused by defective products sold by third parties. The author examines the issue from both a US and European perspective, considering relevant directives and regulations. The article also highlights the similarities and differences between the solutions adopted by the Catalan, Spanish, and Portuguese legislatures. Overall, the article provides important insights into the transposition of directives and the digitalization of contract law. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Técnica Contable y Financiera is the property of Wolters Kluwer Espana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article examines the question of the constitutional legitimacy of independent administrative authorities. This legitimacy is studied in its internal and supranational dimension and is analysed with a main reference to the legislation and experience of CONSOB, which is a particular Italian administrative structure, which represents an important example of the main characteristics and constitutional problems related to the administrative authorities independent. Through this examination, the same analysis seems to demonstrate that the aforementioned constitutional legitimacy must be identified fundamentally in European law, even if the peculiarities of those administrative structures seem to require a stronger verification of this legitimacy through recourse to a full and broad application of the discipline Italian and European legislation on the administrative procedure, with particular reference to the participation of interested subjects, which can make a useful contribution to the completion and implementation of the legitimacy indicated above, allowing for the correction of a tendential democratic deficit, which can be found in the same administrative structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a legal case in Germany regarding the payment of rent for commercial premises during the Covid-19 lockdown. The German Federal Court of Justice ruled that tenants are still obligated to pay rent, even if they were unable to use the property for its intended purpose due to the lockdown. The court considered the concepts of impossibility of performance and interference with the basis of the transaction in German law, and evaluated each case individually to determine if an adjustment of the contract was necessary. The decision aims to distribute the economic risk of the pandemic fairly between tenants and landlords, but may lead to uncertainty in future court proceedings. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Aktuelles Steuerrecht is the property of Richard Boorberg Verlag GmbH & Co KG and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Técnica Contable y Financiera is the property of Wolters Kluwer Espana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article discusses the history, laws and concept of national borders in Svalbard, Norway, including implications for the Arctic regions and tourism to the area. An overview of the legal status of aliens, or noncitizens, in Svalbard, including the lack of legal difference in owning a business, is provided.

The article is a book review of "New Directions in European Private Law," edited by Mateja DUROVIC and Takis TRIDIMAS. The book explores contemporary challenges in European private law, including emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, blockchain, and the collaborative economy. The review highlights chapters that examine recent EU legislation addressing these challenges and discusses the need for a more dynamic interpretation of EU law principles. The book offers a thought-provoking perspective on the role of scholars in engaging with legal change and provides expert legal scholarship on various themes in European private law. [Extracted from the article]

The European Court of Justice judgment of May 17th, 2022 has revealed the need to adapt national legal process litigation to the EU legislation in order to obtain a more effective judicial protection in consumer cases. The author analyzes the impact in the Spanish legal system the decisions of the Court of Justice make and how they affect in procedural law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent report from Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain, discusses the Constitutional Impact of Rule-of-law Spending Conditionality in the European Union. The study evaluates the effectiveness of Regulation 2020/2092 in promoting rule-of-law principles and its broader impact on the EU constitutional architecture. The research highlights concerns about the expansion of rule-of-law conditionality and its potential consequences for the ethos of the European Union, including issues related to competence, citizenship, and trust among member states. This peer-reviewed study provides valuable insights into the ongoing discussions surrounding governance and values within the EU. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Técnica Contable y Financiera is the property of Wolters Kluwer Espana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The University of Graz conducted research on the essence of the right to property under Art 1 of Protocol 1 to the European Convention on Human Rights, focusing on cases from Central and Eastern Europe. The study explores the limitations of owners' rights in the general interest, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research suggests that the concept of an inviolable core of the right to property is contested, with the European Court of Human Rights allowing for various interferences with property rights. For more information, readers can access the full article in the Review of Central and East European Law. [Extracted from the article]

Apple Inc. is seeking to have the US antitrust lawsuit against them dismissed early, arguing that the government has not shown how their alleged monopoly has harmed consumers or developers. The lawsuit accuses Apple of antitrust violations by blocking rivals from accessing hardware and software features on their devices, limiting third-party digital wallets, and more. The case is being heard in federal court in Newark, New Jersey, with Apple claiming they have the legal right to choose their business partners and terms. The Biden administration and 16 state attorneys general are pushing for the case to proceed, alleging that Apple's actions were an attempt to stifle competition and create an illegal advantage in the smartphone market. [Extracted from the article]

Apple Inc. is seeking to have the US antitrust lawsuit against them dismissed early, arguing that the government has not shown how their alleged monopoly has harmed consumers or developers. The lawsuit accuses Apple of violating antitrust laws by blocking rivals from accessing hardware and software features on their devices, hindering innovation and consumer choice. The judge is expected to make a decision by January on Apple's motion to dismiss the case, which was brought by the Biden administration and attorneys general from 19 states and the District of Columbia. Apple's lawyers maintain that the government's allegations lack evidence linking their conduct to harm for smartphone users, while the Justice Department argues that Apple's actions have restricted competition and consumer choice. [Extracted from the article]

A German court has ruled that Facebook users affected by a data breach in 2018 and 2019 may be eligible for compensation, even without demonstrating specific monetary losses. Thousands of users in Germany are suing Meta, Facebook's parent company, for inadequate data protection after third parties accessed accounts through phone number guessing. The court's decision requires a reexamination of the claims, with a lower court needing to determine if Facebook's terms of use were clear and if users consented to data usage. Meta has previously refused compensation, arguing that impacted parties could not prove tangible damages, and the leak impacted nearly six million people in Germany. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of IEE: Industrie, Engineering, Effizienz is the property of Dokumentations- und Informationszentrum (DIZ) Munchen GmbH and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article from Auto Express discusses the use of snow chains in the UK, highlighting their importance in areas prone to heavy snowfalls. While snow chains are a legal requirement in certain European countries, they are not commonly used in the UK due to the infrequency of heavy snow. The article advises that for most people in the UK, winter tires may be more suitable for winter driving conditions. It also emphasizes the importance of knowing when and how to fit snow chains properly to avoid damage to the vehicle. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Trnava University in Slovakia discusses the effects of pandemic legislation on insolvency law in the country. The COVID-19 outbreak prompted Slovakia to quickly adapt its bankruptcy legislation and introduce temporary measures to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. However, the uptake of these pandemic-specific insolvency provisions remained modest, possibly due to extensive government financial support. As the pandemic subsides, future economic challenges such as rising inflation and interest rates may test the durability and effectiveness of these legislative adjustments. This period of regulatory adjustment reflects a broader shift in insolvency laws, emphasizing business continuity and value during economic crises. [Extracted from the article]

The subject of State-owned maritime property concessions for tourism and recreational purposes has long been a matter of dispute in the Italian legal system: on the one hand, Directive 2016/123/EC, as interpreted by European jurisprudence, mandates that existing concessions should not be automatically extended; on the other hand, the national legislature insists on granting the possibility of extension, to protect the contracts of concessionaires. The Regional Administrative Court (T.A.R.) of Lecce, Italy has recently intervened again on this point, submitting to the Court of Justice a new request for interpretation of both Directive 2016/123/EC and the national legislation which lastly extended the existing state concessions until 31 Dec. 2033. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The digital disruption of the media and society has changed how citizens participate in public debate and democracy. Today, internet platforms play a significant role in the public sphere. However, their role in the spread of disorders in the public sphere has increased fears about the future of democracy. The main hypothesis of this article is that the regulation of freedom of speech in Europe is fragmented. Therefore, the European Union and individual states are asking social media platforms to monitor their content. A lack of competence in regulating platforms has led to the introduction of various forms of regulation, such as loose co-regulation and the private censorship of content. These new regulations challenge the underlying rationale and justification of the freedom of speech doctrine and principle of the rule of law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the significance of the ne bis in idem principle is undisputed, it has proven difficult to apply it consistently over the years. In the EU, the Court of Justice (CJEU) case law has long diverged according to the field of law. Notably, since Aalborg Portland and Toshiba an antitrust-specific threefold condition of idem (same person, same facts, same protected legal interest) has been developed, which was at odds with the twofold identity approach (same offender and same facts) established in Van Esbroek and applied to other areas of law, as confirmed in Menci. Against this background, in two recent seminal judgements (bpost and Nordzucker) the Grand Chamber has finally levelled the legal playing field, ruling in favour of a unified test shaped on Menci. Although the overruling is welcome, it needs to be accompanied by a careful elaboration on the conditions legitimating limits to the ne bis in idem principle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The greatest success of the Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) is probably the strong influence it has exerted on law reformers both at the domestic and the international level. Since its coming into force, there have been significant reforms of European private law through harmonization efforts of the European Union and legislative activities of its Member States. This article shows that there is a strong trend for their modernizations in the area of sale of goods and contract law to follow the solutions found under the CISG, especially concerning the definition of non-conformity and damages based on strict liability coupled with a foreseeability requirement. There are also occasional improvements like the exemption for impediments beyond the obligor's control barring both damages and explicitly also specific performance or the open recognition of gain-based damages. Still, some departures from the solutions of the CISG need to be criticized, amongst others narrow definitions of the concept of sale of goods, the foreseeability limitation for damages not applying in cases of gross negligence or fraud, and separate provisions for cases of hardship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Tax Magazine (2392-7011) is the property of Editura Solomon and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Tax Magazine (2392-7011) is the property of Editura Solomon and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article discusses the slow progress of urban greening in Europe and explores the potential for accelerating tree protection through European law. It highlights the importance of urban green spaces for cooling the environment, reducing air pollution, improving public health, and addressing climate change-related challenges like flood prevention. It also discusses the European Union's Nature Restoration Law proposal, which aims to restore and protect urban green space.

Germany has extended frontier controls to all nine of its land borders in an effort to crack down on irregular immigration and strengthen domestic security. The temporary controls, which already exist on borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Austria, will now be extended for six months to include Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Luxembourg. The move allows police to establish stationary and mobile checks and turn people away, as long as their actions are in line with European and German law. The decision comes in response to frustration with the government's immigration and asylum policies, which has led to the rise of extreme right and left parties in recent regional elections. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the U.S. joining the Council of Europe's Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence (AI), aimed at preventing AI-driven discrimination and advancing international standards. Topics discussed include the U.S.'s participation in AI regulation, the Framework Convention's goals, and global standards for AI use.

Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, has been charged in France for his alleged involvement in the spread of sexual images of children and other crimes on his platform. The case against Durov claims that Telegram has been uncooperative with authorities and has enabled organized criminals to carry out unlawful transactions. While Telegram is used by protesters and those who criticize authoritarian regimes, it has also become a hub for conspiracy theorists and extremists. Durov has received support from figures in the social media industry, including Elon Musk, who argue that the case raises concerns over free speech. [Extracted from the article]

Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, is currently being held in Paris for allegedly allowing criminals to use the messaging app. French law states that his detention cannot exceed 96 hours, after which he must appear before an investigative judge. The judge will then decide whether to press charges or release him as a material witness. If charges are pressed, another judge will determine any restrictions on Durov's movements or if he should post a bond. The investigation is looking into various allegations, including failure to assist with legal wiretaps, facilitating the sale of child sexual abuse material, and aiding drug trafficking. Telegram has stated that Durov has nothing to hide and that the app complies with European laws. A criminal trial, if ordered, may take several months or even years to occur. [Extracted from the article]

Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, has been released from four days of detention by French authorities and is now facing questioning from a judge in Paris. The judge will decide whether to press charges against Durov or name him as a material witness in an investigation into allegations that criminals have been using the messaging app. Durov's laissez-faire approach to regulation has made Telegram popular but has also put him at odds with governments. French authorities are investigating a range of allegations, including the enabling of child sexual abuse material and aiding drug trafficking. Durov has asserted that he has "nothing to hide" and that Telegram abides by European laws. A criminal trial, if ordered, may be months or even years away. [Extracted from the article]

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov is awaiting a decision on whether he will face charges for allegedly allowing criminals to use the messaging app. Durov's detention in France can't exceed 96 hours, after which he will be brought before an investigative judge who will determine if charges should be pressed or if he should be released as a material witness. If charges are pressed, another judge will decide on restrictions or bail. The investigation is looking into various allegations, including failure to assist with legal wiretaps and enabling illegal activities. Durov's company, Telegram, asserts that it abides by European laws and that Durov has "nothing to hide." A criminal trial, if ordered, may be months or years away. [Extracted from the article]

An investigation by the Dutch privacy regulator found Uber had transferred sensitive data belonging to European drivers to the U.S., including taxi licenses, IDs, location data, payments and even criminal and medical records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, has been detained in France over allegations that the messaging service did not adequately combat crime on the app, including the spread of child sexual abuse material. Durov was stopped at an airport in Paris and his detention has been extended for up to 96 hours. The case is being investigated by a cybercrime unit of the Paris prosecutor's office and includes allegations of refusing to assist with legal wiretaps, enabling the sale of child sexual abuse material, and aiding drug trafficking. Telegram, which has 900 million active users, has stated that it abides by European laws and that Durov has "nothing to hide." Durov, a citizen of France and the United Arab Emirates, has not commented on whether he has renounced his Russian citizenship. The Russian embassy in Paris has requested an explanation for Durov's detention and French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that the arrest is not politically motivated. [Extracted from the article]

Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, has been detained in France over allegations that the messaging service failed to effectively combat crime on the app, including the spread of child sexual abuse material. Durov was stopped at an airport in Paris and his detention has been extended for up to 96 hours. The investigating magistrate will decide whether to press charges, release him without charges, or name him as a witness. Telegram, which has almost 1 billion users, denies the allegations and asserts that it abides by European laws. Durov, a Russian-born billionaire, previously made his fortune by founding the social media network VKontakte and has a net worth of over $9 billion. [Extracted from the article]

Uber Technologies Inc. has been fined a record €290 million ($324 million) by the Dutch privacy watchdog for violating European protection standards. The Dutch Data Protection Authority found that Uber collected sensitive data about its drivers in Europe, including taxi licenses, location data, and criminal and medical data, and transferred them to servers in the US without using adequate privacy protection measures. This is the largest fine ever issued by the Dutch watchdog and the largest fine Uber has received globally. Uber plans to appeal the decision, stating that its data transfer process was compliant with European laws. [Extracted from the article]

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has been detained in France on suspicion of failing to prevent criminal use of the messaging app. Telegram has issued a statement asserting that it abides by European laws and that Durov has "nothing to hide." Durov, who is a citizen of France and the United Arab Emirates, has not commented on whether he has renounced his Russian citizenship. The Russian embassy in Paris has requested an explanation from French authorities and is in contact with Durov's lawyer. Telegram, created by Durov and his brother, has about 900 million active users and has faced allegations of being used for criminal activity and extremist material. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the European Union's introduction of the Artificial Intelligence Act, which aims to address the risks associated with AI technology through a risk-based regulatory framework. Topics include the Act's requirements for high-risk AI systems, international reactions and similar regulations in other countries, and the potential lessons Australia can learn in managing AI risks.