PhD student: Mrs M. Vanderhaegen

Promotor: J. Vanherpe

Duration: 1/10/2023 - 30/9/2027

Abstract:

The research starts from the research hypothesis that an appropriate approach exists in conceptualising and developing a legal framework for (quasi-)intellectual property rights in the European Union (EU) that further supports an effective right to repair. In order to assess this hypothesis, the project will study the interaction between EU legislation on (quasi-)intellectual property rights on the one hand, and the right to repair as shaped in EU consumer, data and competition law on the other hand. The research thus aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of (quasi-)IP law obstacles for independent players in the repair and maintenance market, which has an important market value for manufacturers of (parts of) complex products. Based on the results of the analysis, policy recommendations will also be formulated.