How do we close Europe’s innovation gap? Start with advanced connectivity and a strong intellectual property rights framework  – POLITICO

Getting the IPR framework right now to unleash long-term innovation

EU policies adopted in the next five years will be foundational for Europe’s innovative ecosystem to thrive in the long term, improving conditions for the next wave of intellectual property lifecycles that can take over a decade to bear fruit.

A smart and strategic policy approach to standardization, security, future spectrum, research and AI will all play a role, as will improved investment conditions for advanced connectivity, but it ultimately comes down to how policy on IPR and innovation plays out in the new mandate.

If we want innovative companies to be able to effectively invest, protect and commercialize their research and development output, we need to ensure a robust, efficient and predictable IPR framework. Draghi’s report sees this clearly, calling for the simplification of IPR procedures, particularly through the support and further adoption of the unitary patent system.

To accelerate innovation and future-proof Europe’s competitive advantage, we need to avoid creating bureaucratic hurdles. But the proposed Standard Essential Patents Regulation threatens to do exactly the opposite, stifling Europe’s ambition to lead in global standardization and jeopardizing its status as a net exporter of innovations in advanced connectivity.

To support innovation, EU institutions must urgently reassess this regulation and reformulate its approach. This starts with improving on what we already have rather than upending existing systems.

We must take the opportunity to recognize the importance of European IPR and policies that strengthen the global standardization system. Serving the world well, that system also assures leadership, prosperity and security for Europe.

Only then can we ensure that innovation in telecoms continues to support European competitiveness.