Following the European Commission’s decision not to introduce new legislation to combat online piracy of live sports, it instead opted to devise a “toolbox” leveraging existing laws. However, this approach, which rightsholders had previously criticized as insufficient, has left them deeply disappointed. Reports indicate that the EC’s recommendations have already been leaked online, further complicating the situation.
In mid-January, the European Commission (EC) stirred up discussion by calling for evidence to shape a proposed “toolbox” aimed at combating live sports piracy. However, this move only intensified existing frustrations among rightsholders. The EC’s decision to rely on existing legislation rather than introduce new laws, as urged by a coalition of rightsholders, fell short of their expectations.
The EC’s call for evidence, despite being based on well-documented challenges faced by rightsholders, yielded little new insight. Subsequently, the leaked EC recommendations, slated for official release in early May, have left rightsholders disappointed. According to reports, the recommendations focus on familiar strategies like effective handling of takedown requests and dynamic injunctions, which are viewed as inadequate by rightsholders.
The Live Content Coalition, representing major video groups, expressed disappointment with what they see as hollow promises and a failure to act on piracy issues. Despite the EC’s suggestions for voluntary cooperation among intermediaries and other stakeholders, skepticism remains about their effectiveness, particularly in the absence of legal compulsion.
While the EC’s proposals include measures like dynamic blocking orders and voluntary actions by intermediaries, questions linger about their feasibility and impact, especially in EU countries without existing blocking injunctions. The absence of a timeline for legislative changes further frustrates rightsholders, who argue that urgent action is needed to address piracy effectively.
In the interim, Italy is poised to implement aggressive IPTV blocking measures under existing EU law, signaling a proactive approach at the national level. As rightsholders continue to grapple with piracy challenges, the effectiveness of the EC’s recommendations remains uncertain, with monitoring and evaluation slated for the future.
