Brussels, 08/12/2015 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission is preparing to present a legislative package to ensure the mobility of digital content and make it easier to buy online.
On Wednesday 9 December, it will present four different proposals: (1) a communication to bring the European framework on copyright into line with the digital age; (2) a draft regulation on the mobility of copyright; (3) a draft directive on the provision of digital content (for instance, streaming music on YouTube); (4) a draft directive on the online sales of tangible products (such as buying clothes online). These projects are among the six key actions laid down by the strategy to create a digital single market, which was presented in May of this year.
Mobility of content. The draft regulation will bring in rules to allow Europeans, who have paid to receive services online at home, to continue to access these services when travelling temporarily to another country of the European Union. It covers the broadcasting of films, sports events, music, digital books and games. The text, which will be applicable six months after it enters into force, places no time limit on trips abroad (to the great consternation of the creative industry), but simply stipulates that the traveller must reside in another member state. The member states will be responsible for monitoring and shaping the provisions.
Modernisation of copyright rules. The communication presents the Commission's plans for copyright. It identifies three areas for action: (1) the location of the copyright to improve the access and availability of online services in the EU; (2) exemptions to the rules on copyright; (3) rules applicable to online intermediaries. The communication aims to steer the debate and proposes a timetable for the work in these areas.
Buying online. These proposals, which are based on “targeted total harmonisation”, add to the directive on consumers' rights (2011/83/EU). The proposal on digital content brings in a series of changes, such as the liability of the supplier in the event of defects, the burden of proof, the right to end the contract and the use of personal data. For instance, if the consumer has obtained digital content in exchange for his or her personal data, the new rules clarify that the supplier must stop using the data once the contract has ended. The proposal on tangible products sold online extends the burden of proof to two years, from six months at the moment. It also gives consumers the right to terminate a contract or to be reimbursed in the event of any minor defect in the product, if the vendor can repair or replace the defective product. For the first time, it gives rights to consumers buying second-hand products online. (Original in French by Sophie Petitjean)