Often perceived as a victimless crime, intellectual property crime (IPC) has serious and far-reaching implications for public health and safety, as well as for governments, businesses and economies. The COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on the threat posed by this crime and the nefarious consequences resulting from the illegal manufacturing and distribution of fake face masks, personal protective equipment and COVID-related medicines and vaccines.
Cases supported by Eurojust have also revealed that IPC is increasingly linked to other forms of criminality, including corruption, tax fraud, cybercrime and money laundering. The fight against IPC therefore requires a coordinated and multidisciplinary response to help ensure the enforcement of IP rights across the European Union, while creating an environment where creativity and innovation are promoted and protected, and businesses and economies can thrive.
Eurojust is an agency of the European Union